December 22, 2025
News | SUNTV Global Channel
The Edo State Police Command has condemned the reported disappearance of corpses from some morgues across the state, describing the practice as criminal, inhuman, and a grave violation of the dignity of the dead and their grieving families.
The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Monday Agbonika, issued the warning on Monday during a press briefing in Benin City, where he outlined the command’s security strategy for the Yuletide period and presented a comprehensive review of its achievements in 2025.
Agbonika said the police would not tolerate any form of abuse or criminal activity linked to mortuaries, stressing that individuals or institutions found culpable in the illegal removal or disappearance of corpses would be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted.
“The disappearance of corpses from morgues is criminal, inhuman, and deeply disturbing. Anyone involved will face the full weight of the law,” the police commissioner warned.
Residents Advised To Use Government Mortuaries
The police boss advised residents to patronise government-owned mortuaries, noting that such facilities operate under stricter oversight and accountability mechanisms compared to privately run morgues.
He also called on members of the public to promptly report suspicious activities around mortuary facilities to security agencies.
2025 Security Operations: 821 Suspects Arrested
Providing a breakdown of the command’s operational achievements in 2025, Agbonika disclosed that 821 suspects were arrested for various criminal offences across the state.
According to him, the arrests included:
- 39 suspects for armed robbery
- 171 suspects for kidnapping
- 117 suspects for murder
- 62 suspects for rape and other sexual offences
- 239 suspects for cultism
- 36 suspects for unlawful possession of firearms
- 157 suspects for other criminal offences
He further revealed that 377 kidnapped victims were successfully rescued during the year, while 11 stolen vehicles were recovered.
In addition, the command recovered 188 firearms and 422 rounds of ammunition of different calibres from criminal elements.
Forest Clearance, Intensified Patrols Boost Security
Agbonika explained that the command adopted an intelligence-driven and proactive policing strategy, which included intensified visibility policing, strategic patrols, targeted stop-and-search operations, and a forest clearance exercise in Edo North aimed at flushing out criminal hideouts.
Festive Period: Police Urge Vigilance
As the festive season approaches, the commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and cooperative with security agencies, assuring the public that the Edo State Police Command’s 24-hour emergency response lines remain fully operational.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives, property, and public order across the state.
