The Nigerian Army says troops of 4 Brigade early Thursday raided the hideouts of suspected criminal gangs in Gbelebu village, Okomu forest in Ovia South West Local Government Area of Edo State.
According to an Army statement, the troops conducted the raid while acting on credible intelligence but narrowly missed one of the notorious criminals who has been on the watchlist of the brigade, Joshua Ewaiken, better known as ‘General’.
However, the troops arrested Shell Joshua and Godspower Joshua, who are brothers to the suspect currently at large.
Also arrested were Obuh Ayawe and Japhet Uyaboerizha.
The Army said the raid was pursuant to its continuous determination and renewed vigor to rid Edo State of all forms of criminal activities and make it safer for law abiding citizens.
The Army said Shell Joshua and members of his gang have been engaging in nefarious activities such as kidnapping, robbery, extortion of locals, raping, unlawful possession of firearms, terrorising of villagers and adjoining communities among other crimes.
“Items recovered include a Toyota Highlander vehicle, assorted illicit drugs and a mobile phone.
“The suspects are currently in troops custody for further investigations,” the statement read in part.
The Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen. Ebenezer Oduyebo commended the troops for their untiring efforts at denying criminal elements and economic saboteurs freedom of action in the Brigade Area of Operations.