The Edo State Police Command has rescued three kidnapped victims, a farmer and his two wives in Ekpoma and arrested eight suspected kidnappers during coordinated security operations across the state.
The victims, identified as Abraham Udewa and his wives, Brinda and Anna Abraham, were abducted from Egoro Amende Community in Ekpoma. According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Enom Ikoedem, the rescue followed a distress call that triggered an intensive bush-combing operation in the Idoha/Ewu Forest.
The operation involved police tactical teams, drone surveillance, the Edo State Security Corps, hunters and local vigilante groups. The joint team tracked the suspects across adjoining forests, forcing the kidnappers to flee and abandon the victims, who were rescued unharmed.
Eight suspected kidnappers were arrested during the operation. They include Jokoro Sali (52), Buhari Ibrahim (32), Isah Abubakar (35), Shehu Ibrahim (25), Abdullahi Samar (18), Ibrahim Shaibu (19), Mohammed Joro (22) and Suleiman Sunana (35). Police said three tents suspected to be kidnappers’ camps were uncovered, while five mobile phones believed to belong to previous victims were recovered. Other items found at the scene include cutlasses, a solar panel, rope, palm oil and a face cap.
In a related development, the police also arrested five suspects for alleged vandalism of a petroleum pipeline in Uhiele Community, Ekpoma, within the Edo Central Senatorial District. An excavator reportedly used to damage the pipeline was recovered, along with vandalised pipes. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing suspects linked to the crime.
The Edo State Police Command reiterated its commitment to tackling kidnapping and other criminal activities across the state. Residents were urged to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information to security agencies to aid crime-fighting efforts.
Im glad the police rescued the family, but are we doing enough to prevent kidnappings in the first place?
I find it concerning that kidnapping incidents are still happening. Hope the authorities take stricter measures to prevent such crimes.
Im glad the police rescued the family, but should we be concerned about the rise in pipeline vandalism? Lets discuss.
Do you think the police should receive more recognition for their efforts in rescuing the kidnapped family and arresting suspects?
Wow, do you think the police should receive more recognition for their efforts in rescuing the kidnapped family and arresting suspects?