Operatives of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) have arrested a 45-year-old ex-convict, Owen Osas, over alleged involvement in armed robbery in the state.
The suspect was previously arrested in 2023 for a similar offence and was found in possession of a cut-to-size gun by the police.
He was subsequently charged to court and remanded at the Okon Correctional Centre in Benin City, before regaining his freedom in 2025.
Sources said Osas allegedly returned to criminal activities shortly after his release, acquiring another locally made firearm.
At the weekend, he reportedly attacked a man and a woman at their residence in the Eayen axis of Benin City around 9pm, and dispossessed them of their phones and cash.
However, operatives of the corps, who were on patrol, intercepted the suspect minutes after the incident.
A cut-to-size gun was recovered from him during a search.
In an interview, the suspect admitted to being a member of a cult group, claiming he carried the weapon for self-protection against rival groups.
“The person who initiated me into the confraternity gave me the gun, and I use it to protect myself,” he said.
The Deputy Commander of the Corps, Richard Balogun, who confirmed the arrest, said the stolen phones were recovered from the suspect.
He added that the suspect has been handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution.
