Edo nabs two for illegal revenue collection

In a move to curb illegal revenue collection, the Edo State Taskforce has arrested two individuals, Osasere Amadin and Irahbor Destiny, in Benin City. The arrests occurred around the Third Junction area following intelligence reports indicating ongoing illegal revenue collection activities.

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This (Monday) morning, acting on an intelligent report, the Taskforce Commander mobilised his men to the Third Junction in Benin City. The report indicated that illegal collection is ongoing in the area as drivers were being extorted.

The suspects were apprehended on Monday, June 22, 2026, by officials of the Edo State Taskforce, who had mounted surveillance in the area after receiving tips. Rufus Johnbull, the Station Officer of the Edo State Taskforce who led the operation, confirmed that the suspects were caught in the act of extorting drivers.

Johnbull stated that the Edo State Government, under Governor Monday Okpebholo, is determined to eliminate illegal revenue collection and has banned the practice. He assured that the taskforce would intensify its efforts to ensure the Third Junction and other areas are free from such activities. "The Edo State Government will ensure that those who embark on illegal revenue collection across the state will not find peace until they are all arrested," he said.

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We got there and mapped out surveillance, and we were able to arrest some of the people engaged in the illegal act.

A bus driver, who requested anonymity, expressed concern over the activities of illegal revenue collectors at the Third Junction. He reported being assaulted and having his vehicle impounded after refusing to pay a N200 levy. The driver appealed to the government to address the issue, noting that drivers face harassment and intimidation when they refuse to pay various levies demanded by different individuals.

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The Taskforce will intensify its efforts to ensure that the junction and other areas in the city are free from illegal revenue collection.

One of the arrested suspects, Irahbor Destiny, confessed to the offense. He claimed to work for a Chief Security Officer of a vigilante group named Amaosa Ogiemaye, stating that collected money was shared among vigilante members in the area.

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The Edo State Government will ensure that those who embark on illegal revenue collection across the state will not find peace until they are all arrested.