The Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) has arrested a 22-year-old man impersonating a soldier and a Police Constable for alleged possession of firearms and suspected involvement in kidnapping.

The fake soldier, identified as Peter Ehiotu from Benue State, was apprehended wearing an Army uniform in an uncompleted building along the Oluku Bypass axis, according to ESSC Deputy Commander in charge of operations, Richard Balogun.

Balogun said items recovered from Ehiotu included an Army jacket and a substance suspected to be methamphetamine, commonly known as “ice.”

The Police Constable, Nelson Agbonze, was arrested on February 10, 2026, along Amufi Road in Benin City while in possession of a cut-to-size firearm. Balogun noted that Agbonze was not authorized to carry arms or undergo full weapons training.

Two additional suspects were also arrested in separate operations for firearm possession and theft, as part of the ESSC’s ongoing intelligence-driven patrols.

Balogun emphasized that the operations aim to remove criminal elements from communities and strengthen internal security across Edo State.

Speaking to journalists, Ehiotu claimed he resides at the S&T barracks in Benin City and obtained the Army uniform from a serving officer.

The Deputy Corps Commander stated that the suspects would be handed over to the Edo State Police Command for further investigation and prosecution.

Authorities urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities to help curb crime in the state.

The ESSC reaffirmed its commitment to routine patrols and coordinated operations to safeguard lives and property.