Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has threatened to sign death warrants for convicted criminals as part of a tougher security stance in the state.

The governor made the statement on Thursday during a parade of suspects at the Edo State Police Command headquarters in Benin City, according to Channels Television.

He said a special court would be established to fast-track the prosecution of kidnappers and cultists, insisting that trials would be concluded within two weeks.

“We are going to set up a special court to prosecute kidnappers and cultists. Within two weeks, the court is done with proceedings. I will sign your execution,” he said during the briefing.

Okpebholo also claimed that any confirmed offenders would not be spared, adding that security operations were ongoing to track down remaining members of kidnapping gangs.

Police authorities confirmed that one suspect linked to a recent kidnapping incident at a vegetable market had been arrested, while another was killed during an operation. Two suspects remain at large.

The governor also rewarded police operatives with ₦10 million for their role in the arrest. Items recovered from the suspect reportedly include a firearm, ammunition, a motorcycle, a Lexus RX 350 vehicle, and cash suspected to be proceeds of crime.

The Edo State Police Commissioner said investigations were continuing and assured that efforts were being intensified to apprehend the remaining suspects. He also urged residents to provide timely intelligence to security agencies.

Okpebholo further stated that security funding from the federal government was supporting ongoing operations, while urging residents to avoid criminal activity and live within lawful means.