The Edo State Police Command has rescued a 66-year-old kidnapping victim, Mr Obareki Emmanuel, from Ibeakuma Forest in Edo State, in a coordinated intelligence-led operation that also led to the recovery of the ransom money.
Emmanuel was rescued unhurt on Sunday, September 6, after security operatives tracked the kidnappers to a location in the forest where they had positioned themselves to collect the ransom.
The victim had been abducted alongside his wife, who was rescued unharmed on September 4.
The operation involved the police, Nigerian Army, Edo State Security Corps, 82 Mobile Police Force personnel and local vigilantes.
According to the police, technical intelligence and systematic bush-combing operations enabled security personnel to locate the kidnappers’ hideout.
The security team moved into the area at about 4:30pm, triggering a gun battle with the suspects.
The police said the kidnappers eventually fled into the forest with gunshot wounds, abandoning the victim and the ransom money.
The Command said bush-combing operations are continuing as security operatives intensify efforts to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.
Police Investigate Robbery at ADC Chairman’s Residence
Meanwhile, the Edo State Police Command has commenced investigation into a robbery at the residence of the Edo State Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, Hon Kennedy Odion, in Benin City.
The incident occurred at about 3am on September 6 at the politician’s residence off Winners Road, Uhie.
The hoodlums reportedly made away with four mobile phones, ₦500,000 in cash, two Toyota Highlander vehicles and other valuables.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Patrick Daaor, visited the scene and ordered a comprehensive investigation to identify and apprehend those behind the attack.
The Violent Crime Response Unit has taken over the case, while detectives have processed the scene and commenced investigations.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to intelligence-led and collaborative policing, assuring residents that it would continue to deploy all available resources to protect lives and property across Edo State.
