Edo Police Rescue 16 Kidnap Victims in Joint Operations

The Edo State Police Command says it has rescued sixteen kidnap victims during separate coordinated operations along the Benin–Lagos and Benin–Akure highways.

The spokesman of the command, Joel Yamu, confirmed the development in a statement on Wednesday, explaining that the rescue was achieved through joint efforts with vigilantes and local hunters.

“These combined efforts yielded significant success as six victims were rescued along the Benin–Akure Road, one of them sustained a gunshot injury during the attack and was rescued from the scene by public-spirited individuals, and is currently responding to treatment. Similarly, three additional victims were safely rescued along the Benin–Lagos Road,” the statement partly read.

“Furthermore, seven victims of the Benin-Akure road kidnap regained their freedom in the evening of 25th August, 2025.”

Giving details of how the operations unfolded, the police explained:
“On 23rd August, 2025, at about 17:30hrs and 18:00hrs respectively, armed kidnappers blocked the highways and abducted innocent travellers. Distress calls were immediately received, prompting the swift mobilisation of security resources. Operatives of Iguobazuwa Division and Ekiadolor Division, in synergy with tactical teams, vigilantes, and local hunters, embarked on intensive and rigorous bush-combing operations to pursue the hoodlums and secure the release of the victims.”

The Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, personally led the operation along the Benin–Akure route. According to Yamu, “To enhance precision and coordination, the Command deployed advanced technical support, including drones, which proved instrumental in the rescue efforts.”

Agbonika praised his men and commended the crucial contributions of vigilantes and local hunters. He emphasised that community collaboration has remained vital in combating crime.

The commissioner further assured residents of the state of sustained action. “We are determined to rid our highways and communities of violent crime, and we will continue to deploy all resources, both human and technological, to guarantee the safety of every resident and travellers,” the police assured.