On 14th October 2025, following the kidnap of one Blessing Anani (female, 12 years old) at Ayogwiri Community, Uzairue, in Etsako West Local Government Area, operatives of Jattu Division, in collaboration with local vigilantes and hunters, and led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), launched a coordinated operation to rescue the victim.
The team trailed a family member, Sunday Idornigie (male), who had been coerced into delivering ransom to the kidnappers around the Agenebode axis. Upon arrival, the operatives observed one of the suspects viciously attacking the family member with a machete. As officers advanced to rescue him, the gang opened fire. The operatives responded with superior firepower, successfully dislodging the kidnappers.
Consequently:
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The victim, Blessing Anani, was rescued unhurt.
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Sunday Idornigie, who sustained machete injuries, was immediately evacuated for medical treatment.
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One suspect sustained fatal gunshot wounds during the exchange and was rushed to Favor Hospital, Afashio, where he was confirmed dead by the doctor on duty. His remains have been deposited in the mortuary.
Other members of the gang escaped into the bush with suspected gunshot wounds. A blood-stained machete was recovered from the scene as investigations continue to track down the fleeing suspects.
2. FOILED KIDNAP ATTEMPT ALONG IGARRA–IBILLO HIGHWAY
On 17th October 2025, at about 8:30 p.m., the Command received a distress call about suspected kidnappers operating along the Igarra–Ibillo Highway. The DPO Igarra, in conjunction with the Command’s Operation Rescue Teams, swiftly mobilized to the scene.
On sighting the approaching security team, the hoodlums opened fire but were quickly overpowered and forced to flee into the bush, abandoning their intended victims—traders returning from Ibillo Market.
All victims were rescued unharmed, and bush-combing operations are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, commended the professionalism and bravery of the officers involved, as well as the collaborative efforts of vigilantes and hunters in both operations. He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to support the Command by promptly reporting suspicious activities and providing actionable intelligence.
Security is a shared responsibility. Together, we can rid our communities of criminal elements.
CSP MOSES JOEL YAMU, anipr
Police Public Relations Officer
Edo State Command
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