BENIN CITY — The Edo State Police Command has launched a major enforcement operation against the unauthorized possession and use of restricted security equipment following two separate, high-profile incidents involving the fatal and dangerous deployment of tear gas and pepper spray.

Police Officer Arrested Following Fatal Tear-Gas Incident

On Monday, June 1, 2026, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, announced the arrest of a police officer implicated in a fatality that occurred on May 25, 2026.

According to the official statement, the officer, who was attached to the Command, unlawfully discharged tear gas in the Ogida area of Benin City. The action resulted in the death of a citizen. The Command confirmed that the officer has been taken into custody and is currently undergoing disciplinary proceedings and criminal investigation in accordance with Nigerian law.

Stadium Stampede Triggers Arrests

The Command also provided an update on a separate, chaotic incident that occurred on May 27, 2026, at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium during Children’s Day celebrations.

A mass stampede was triggered after private bouncers unlawfully discharged pepper spray within the crowded stadium premises, causing widespread panic and endangering children and attendees. Following an intensive investigation, the police arrested four individuals:

      •  The Bouncers: Ifeanyi John Paul (36), Ola Ibikunle (46), and Onoha Chukwuoji (33).

      •  The Supplier: Mrs. Rebecca Hassan, identified as the individual responsible for supplying the pepper spray used during the event.

Stern Warning on Restricted Accoutrements

Expressing "grave concern" over the proliferation of restricted security gear, the Edo State Police Command has issued a strong directive to the public, private security outfits, vigilante groups, and bouncers.

      •  Strict Prohibition: The Command has declared the unauthorized possession of tear gas, pepper spray, and other force-related equipment a criminal offense.

      •  Legal Consequences: ASP Ikoedem emphasized that the police view the use of these items by untrained individuals as an act of assault capable of causing grievous bodily harm or death.

      •  Directives to Sellers: The Command stated it would aggressively pursue the arrest and prosecution of any individual found selling, distributing, or possessing such equipment without legal authorization.

"The Command frowns on the use of such items without proper training or regard for public safety," the statement read. "We have issued a stern warning: any person found in possession of these prohibited accoutrements, including sellers and suppliers, will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly."