From Tony Osauzo, Benin
The Edo State Police Command arrested Ovbokhan Igbinovia Kelvin, 43, the recently dethroned Ohen (Priest) of Okhoromi, and four others on Saturday, May 17, for possessing prohibited weapons and a suspected human skull. The operation involved the Command’s Intelligence Unit, Rapid Response Squad, and Anti-Kidnapping Squad.
According to SP Moses Yamu, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, the other suspects are Osarodion Omoregie, 41; Charles Otasowei, 55; Edwin Igbinovia, 45; and Osagie Igbinovia, 44. Items recovered from Igbinovia’s premises included two AK-47 rifles (breach numbers TH4782 and 6683), two single-barrel locally made shotguns, three empty AK-47 magazines, one OFM magazine, eleven rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, and a suspected human skull.
“The Edo State Command in a sting operation carried out by operatives of the Command Intelligence and Rapid Response Squad alongside the Anti-Kidnapping Squad today 17/05/2025 arrested the recently dethroned Ohen of Okhoromi,” Yamu stated. He added that investigations continue to recover more arms and apprehend fleeing gang members.
Igbinovia was deposed by the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, on May 15, for alleged land grabbing, extortion, and unauthorised property demolitions, violating Benin customs. The Oba’s decision followed community protests on May 14.