Security forces in Edo State have rescued seven persons abducted by gunmen in the Ewohimi area of Esan South-East Local Government Area.
The joint operation, involving personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, and local vigilante groups, was launched after Mr Enoch Omozokpia of Ikeken, Ewohimi, reported the abduction of his father, Mr William Omozokpia, and six others while they were working on a farm in the vast Ikeken Forest.
Acting swiftly, the security team stormed the forest in a well-coordinated operation, combing the bushes and engaging the kidnappers in a tense pursuit. Overpowered by the advancing security forces, the abductors abandoned their victims and fled the scene.
Those rescued include Mr William Akhabue, Mr Innocent Ebarekor, Mrs Rachel Ebarekor, Miss Efuah Ebarekor, Master Winner Ebarekor, Mr William Omozokpia, and Mr Lucky Igiese.
All the victims were safely evacuated from the forest and have since been reunited with their families.
A police source described the operation as “swift and tactical,” adding that efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing kidnappers and ensure they face justice.
The successful rescue has been hailed by residents of the area as a major boost to local security efforts and a testament to improved coordination between security agencies and community vigilantes in Edo State.
