Kidnapped vigilante disarms abductors, rescues 2 other victims in Edo
An operative of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), also known as the Vigilante, Yusuf Kazeem, has reportedly disarmed suspected kidnappers and rescued two other victims held in captivity in the state. The ESSC operative, attached to the Edo North Command, was reportedly ambushed by gunmen while driving to his residence in the Ayoa community, […]
edo security
An operative of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), also known as the Vigilante, Yusuf Kazeem, has reportedly disarmed suspected kidnappers and rescued two other victims held in captivity in the state.
The ESSC operative, attached to the Edo North Command, was reportedly ambushed by gunmen while driving to his residence in the Ayoa community, Etsako West Local Government Area.
The suspects whisked him into the bush at gunpoint on April 12, 2026.
Shortly after his abduction, the kidnappers reportedly opened ransom negotiations with his family. However, Kazeem managed to escape before any payment was made.
It was gathered that while in the forest, Kazeem met two other victims, identified as Caleb Yusuf (25) and Himach Suleiman. Both were reportedly frail due to their prolonged stay in the kidnappers’ den.
Sources stated that the two men had remained in captivity because their families were unable to meet the ransom demands.
Kazeem, while in captivity, monitored his abductors closely. Seizing the slightest opportunity, he engaged them in a fierce struggle, successfully disarming them and seizing an AK-47 rifle.
His abductors reportedly fled the scene, abandoning the rifle along with an extra magazine and ammunition.
Kazeem and the two other abductees then made their escape.
He sustained multiple injuries during the encounter and was rushed to a hospital where he is currently recuperating.
The ESSC Deputy Corps Commander, Richard Balogun, confirmed the incident, stating that Kazeem remains in critical condition but is receiving treatment.
“He fought with the kidnappers, successfully disarmed them, and rescued other kidnapped victims. He sustained severe injuries during the encounter,” Balogun said.
He added that the recovered arms and ammunition have been handed over to the police, and efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspects and bring them to justice.