8 kidnapped victims rescued in Edo

Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have rescued eight kidnapped victims while seven others are still in captivity. The victims, it was learned, were traveling along the Benin–Akure Road, between Obarenren and Odunwongie communities when their vehicle was intercepted by gunmen who whisked them into the bush. The command’s deputy spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, […]

Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have rescued eight kidnapped victims while seven others are still in captivity.

The victims, it was learned, were traveling along the Benin–Akure Road, between Obarenren and Odunwongie communities when their vehicle was intercepted by gunmen who whisked them into the bush.

The command’s deputy spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said the police received a distress call about the incident and mobilized to the scene.

According to her, at the scene, a 14-seater hummer bus with registration number KJA 119 XF, driven by one Francis Okeke of Afuze, Owan East Local Government Area, had been attacked by armed men, and 15 passengers were taken into the nearby bush.

She said that, acting promptly, the operatives pursued the kidnappers into the forest and successfully rescued eight victims, including three children, unhurt.

According to her, seven other passengers are still unaccounted for, and efforts are ongoing to locate and rescue them.

She said the manhunt to arrest the perpetrators is currently in progress, while assuring the safe return of the remaining victims.

She added that the driver of the vehicle is assisting the police with their investigation.

She encouraged anyone with useful information to report immediately to the police for prompt action.