By Eben Enasco
Edo State Police Command says it has successfully rescued 16 kidnapped persons in separate coordinated operations along Benin-Lagos and Benin-Akure Roads, Nigeria.
In a Statement released by CSP Moses Joel Yamu, Police Public Relations Officer, on Tuesday, revealed that on August 23, 2025, at approximately 5:30 pm and 6:00 pm, armed kidnappers blocked the highways and abducted innocent travelers.
Yamu noted that upon receiving distress calls, the Command swiftly mobilized security resources to respond to the situation.
He explained that Operatives from Iguobazuwa Division and Ekiadolor Division, in collaboration with Tactical Teams, Vigilantes, and Local Hunters, conducted intensive bush-combing operations in search of the perpetrators for the rescue and security of the victims.
According to Yamu in the statement, the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, personally led the operation along the Benin-Akure axis, demonstrating strong leadership and commitment.
He Said, “The Command deployed advanced technical support, including drones, to enhance precision and coordination, which proved instrumental in the rescue efforts”.
He stated that the combined efforts yielded significant success, with 6 victims rescued along Benin-Akure Road, including one who sustained a gunshot injury during the attack and is currently responding to treatment.
Three additional victims were safely rescued along Benin-Lagos Road as well as 7 victims of the Benin-Akure road kidnap who regained their freedom on August 25, 2025.
While commending the operatives’ gallantry and professionalism, as well as the vital role played by Vigilantes and Local Hunters, the Commissioner of Police, Agbonika emphasized the effectiveness of synergy between formal law enforcement and community structures in tackling violent crime, calling on the public to trust and support the Police in their efforts to secure the community.
Agbonika assured the public that the Command will continue to work tirelessly to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend the perpetrators, just as he reiterated the Command’s resolve to rid the State’s highways and communities of violent crime, deploying all necessary resources to guarantee the safety of residents and travelers.
