Security operatives rescue 7 kidnap victims in Edo

Sunday, November 9, 2025 - Operatives of the Edo State Police Command, in conjunction with the Nigerian Army and Local Vigilantes, have rescued a family of four and three others allegedly abducted by gunmen suspected to be kidnappers.

The victims were reportedly abducted on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at their farms located at the Ikeken Forest in Ewohimi, Esan South-East Local Government Area in the Edo central senatorial district of the state.

The Deputy Police Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Command, ASP Eno Ikoedem, disclosed this on Saturday, in a statement in Benin City.

Ikoedem said the victims who were rescued unhurt had since reunited with their families.

She said the rescue followed a report by one Enoch Omozokpia of Ikeken, Ewohimi, whose 65-year-old father, Mr William Omozokpia, had been kidnapped on his farm located at the Ikeken Forest alongside six others by armed men suspected to be kidnappers.

She explained that the report prompted the team of security operatives to storm the forest in a well-coordinated operation.

The Command’s spokesperson said the security operatives engaged in an intense bush combing effort that forced the abductors to abandon their captives and flee.

She gave the names of the victims as Mr William Akhabue, Mr Innocent Ebarekor, Mrs Rachel Ebarekor, Miss Efuah Ebarekor, Master Winner Ebarekor, Mr William Omozokpia and Mr Lucky Igiese, A.k.a Bulala.

Ikoedem said the Commissioner of Police in the State, Monday Agbonika, however, commended the gallantry and professionalism displayed by the Police operatives, soldiers, and vigilantes who participated in the rescue operation.

She said the Commissioner reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment to the safety of all residents and assured that efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects and bring them to justice.

The Command, however, reiterated its call on members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or persons to the nearest Police Station or through available emergency lines.