The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the successful rescue of ten students from the University of Benin (UNIBEN) who were abducted by suspected kidnappers along the Benin-Ore expressway, near the Ofosu area bordering Edo and Ondo States.
Hobnob News gathered that the students, who include eight males and two females, were traveling to Babcock University to attend the Annual GYC Africa Conference when they were kidnapped on April 16, 2025.
The Public Relations Officer of the Command, SP Moses Yamu, disclosed the development in a statement made available to journalists. According to the statement, the daring rescue operation resulted in the death of one suspected kidnapper, while others escaped into the forest with gunshot wounds. Unfortunately, one police officer, an Inspector, sustained a gunshot injury during the gunfight and is currently receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital.
“The Command wishes to update the general public on the unfortunate kidnap of some students who were on their way to Babcock University for the Annual GYC Africa Conference on 16/04/2025 at a location bordering Edo and Ondo States,” the statement read.
“On receipt of this information, the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, immediately deployed operatives of the Ohosu Division, IRT, tactical teams, alongside vigilantes and hunters, into the bushes for the possible rescue of the victims and arrest of the suspects.”
Yamu further explained that the operation team encountered heavy resistance as the kidnappers used the students as human shields, prompting a careful and strategic engagement to avoid collateral damage.
“During the operation, operatives engaged in a gun duel with these kidnappers. In the process, one of the kidnappers was neutralised, while others escaped with bullet wounds. An Inspector of Police sustained a gunshot injury and is currently responding to treatment.”
Yamu praised the collaborative effort and bravery of the police, vigilantes, and local hunters, noting that the intense pressure mounted by the team forced the kidnappers to release their captives.
“The rescue effort eventually paid off as the ten (10) kidnapped students comprising eight (8) males and two (2) females were released due to intense pressure mounted on the criminals,” the statement added.
The Edo State Police Command has urged residents in the area to report anyone with gunshot wounds to the nearest police station, as efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
Stay with Hobnob News for updates on this developing story.
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