The Edo State Police Command has successfully foiled a kidnap attempt and rescued several traders along the Igarra–Ibillo Highway in Akoko Edo Local Government Area.
According to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Moses Yamu, the incident occurred on Friday, October 17, 2025, when armed kidnappers ambushed traders returning from the popular Ibillo Market.
Upon receiving a distress call around 8:30 p.m., the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Igarra immediately mobilized operatives, including members of the Operation Rescue Team, to the scene.
“On sighting the approaching security team, the hoodlums opened fire but were swiftly overpowered and forced to flee into the bush, abandoning their captives,” Yamu said.
All the kidnapped victims were rescued unhurt, and bush-combing operations are currently ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, commended the bravery and professionalism of the operatives, as well as the joint efforts of vigilantes and local hunters who supported the rescue mission.
“Security is a shared responsibility,” Agbonika emphasized.
“We urge residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements to law enforcement agencies. Together, we can rid our communities of criminal elements.”
Rising Insecurity in Edo
The foiled attack comes amid rising concerns over kidnapping and cult-related crimes across the state. The command, working alongside sister security agencies, has continued to intensify operations to curb these criminal activities.
In March 2025, seven suspected kidnappers were lynched by a mob in Uromi, Edo Central, after firearms were discovered in their truck. Despite such incidents, kidnapping remains a major threat.
Recently, a retired headmaster, Mr. Eliaser Olorunloju, was abducted near a Fulani settlement between Sasaro and Ayetoro in Akoko-Edo, with his abductors demanding ₦70 million ransom.
In another case, a teenage girl named Blessing was rescued by the Edo State Security Corps five days after she was abducted from Ayogwiri in Etsako West and found in Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area.
The Edo State Police Command reassured residents of its unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and protecting lives and property across the state.
