The Edo State Police Command has rescued a 70-year-old man, Pa Jonah Owobu, who was abducted by suspected kidnappers in Uwalo Oke, Uromi area of the state.
The victim was declared missing on April 20, 2026, after failing to return from his farm.
According to police authorities, his wife reported the incident the following day, revealing that the family had received a ransom demand of ₦30 million from unknown persons.
Following the report, the Divisional Police Officer in Amedokhian mobilised a joint search and rescue team comprising police operatives, military personnel, local hunters, and members of the Edo State Security Corps.
During the operation, the team discovered the victim’s abandoned motorcycle and personal belongings along a forest path, which helped them trace the kidnappers’ hideout.
On sighting the approaching security team, the suspects fled into the bush, leaving the victim behind. He was rescued unhurt and has since been reunited with his family.
Police say efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects, with intensified bush-combing operations currently underway.
The Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to tackling kidnapping and other criminal activities in the state, urging residents to continue providing timely and useful information to security agencies.
The statement was issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem.