Police operatives in Benin City have apprehended a bus passenger, Richard Gabriel, after discovering 36 rounds of live cartridges during a routine stop-and-search operation.
Read more: Police Arrest Man with 36 Live Cartridges in Edo StateAccording to a statement from Edo Police spokesperson Eno Ikoedem on Thursday, Gabriel was intercepted on the afternoon of May 23, 2026, by officers from the Ikpoba Hill Area Command at Guobadia Junction along the Benin–Auchi Road.
The statement explained that a minibus transporting seven passengers from the Benin–Auchi Bypass to Ring Road, Benin City, was stopped for inspection. During the process, three male passengers abandoned their belongings and attempted to escape. Officers gave chase and successfully apprehended one suspect, Richard Gabriel, a 36-year-old resident of Ovia South-West Local Government Area, Edo State.
A subsequent search of Gabriel’s bag revealed thirty-six live cartridges concealed inside.
Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, praised the officers for their vigilance and professionalism and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to fighting crime and protecting residents throughout the state.
