Joint Security Team Conducts Bush Clearance Operation in Edo, Boosts Security Along Okpella–Auchi Corridor

By Zagazola Makama

A joint security team has conducted an extensive bush clearance operation across parts of Edo State as part of ongoing efforts to deny criminal elements safe havens and improve security for residents, farmers and road users.

Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the operation commenced at about 7:30 a.m. on July 14 and involved operatives of the Nigeria Police Force from Okpella Division, personnel of the military, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), as well as local vigilantes and hunters.

The sources said the exercise was sectorised to ensure effective coverage of identified flashpoints and forested areas suspected to be used as hideouts by criminal elements.

Areas covered during the operation included the forest behind the Old Factory in Okpella, the Okpella–Ososo axis, Iruru, Ogute-Oke, Ogute and adjoining areas along the Auchi–Okene Expressway.

According to the sources, the operation was aimed at flushing out suspected criminals, enhancing public confidence and creating a safer environment for farming activities and the free movement of commuters.

The clearance exercise was concluded peacefully at about 4:30 p.m., with no arrests recorded.

Security sources, however, said the operation forms part of a sustained security strategy and will continue across the area to maintain pressure on criminal elements and prevent them from establishing camps within the forests.