The Edo State Police Command has rescued eleven persons who were kidnapped from their farms in Ogbido Community, Iyahmo, while a manhunt for the fleeing suspects involved has commenced.
According to a statement from the Command’s spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the rescue occurred on Thursday, June 25, 2026, following a distress call which reported the abduction of the victims.
She said, that the operatives of Iyahmo Police Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer, in collaboration with local vigilantes and hunters, immediately moved into the surrounding forest in a bid to rescue the victims and apprehend the criminals.
She maintained that: “The police team, while combing the area, encountered the kidnappers, resulting in a fierce exchange of gunfire.
“The criminals, unable to withstand the tactical response and superior firepower of the security operatives, abandoned their captives and escaped into the forest.
“The rescued victims, comprising nine males and two females, were found unharmed. They include: Braimah Destiny, 46; Aruna Idris, 38; Abudu Sharafadeem, 38; Godwin Elizabeth, 28; James Favour, 28; Nonso Ana, 30; Abdulilia Ozigi, 26; Lambo James, 27; Wasia Abdul, 48; Lucky Emmanuel, 24; and Suleman Aliyu, 25.
“The victims were taken to a medical facility for proper examination and were later reunited with their families, while security operatives intensified efforts to track down the fleeing kidnappers.
“The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, praised the courage and dedication of the police personnel, vigilantes, and hunters whose swift action led to the successful rescue operation.”
“The Command has intensified operations across the area and remains committed to ensuring the safety of residents. However, members of the public are urged to continue providing timely and credible information to the Police to aid the fight against crime and criminality.” She said.
The police also assured residents that efforts would continue to ensure the arrest of the suspects and called on members of the public to support security agencies with useful information.
