The-suspects-paraded-by-police

Jethro Ibileke/Benin

Edo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Fimihan Adeoye, has warned politicians in the state against politicizing the arrest of any suspect arrested by the command.

Adeoye gave the warning in Benin on Wednesday while parading a former militant leader, Gen. Pere Ojune and 31 other suspects who were arrested and detained for their alleged involvement in various crimes, ranging from cultism, armed robbery and kidnapping.

The ex war lord was said to have been arrested for alleged possession of fire arms.

The state police boss who paraded the suspects, said among them were five notorious armed robbers and kidnappers involved in terrorising motorists along the Benin-Lagos express road.

“What we investigated is the criminal act of anybody and not the party he belongs, because, as far as we are concerned, crime does not wear political party colour.

“What we only do is investigate any act that is suspected to have been done in contravention of any of our statues. Our concern is ensuring justice and we will not do anything to unlawfully violate the rights of people,” he said.

The ex-militant leader, Pere, while speaking with journalists confirmed that he is an Ijaw from Ovia South West local government area of the state. But he denied being involved in any arms deal or attempt to cause mayhem during the elections.

He explained that it was his younger brother who was arrested with arms that he came to assist when he was arrested.

“It was on Thursday that I saw my junior brother, Ade, on handcuff and he told me he was arrested at Upper Sakponba Road, that they caught him with one double barrel and one cut to size gun. I had earlier warned them not to be involved in any illegal deal. He told the police that I am the only one that can come and rescue him and that was why he brought the police to my place.

“The police said I must come and see the Commissioner myself. I came here with my car and he asked me how I knew this man and I told them he is my brother. They said I should wait and see the CP. That was how they kept me inside the cell till today that I came out. I have not done any thing. I am a repentant militant now working with everybody to ensure peace in our society,” he said.‎