Edo Police rescue a 12-year-old girl and foil a kidnap attempt in two swift operations, killing one suspect and saving victims unharmed

Edo Police rescue efforts have paid off as the State Command successfully saved a 12-year-old girl and foiled an attempted abduction in two separate operations across the state. One suspect was killed, while all victims were rescued unharmed.

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The Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Yamu, confirmed the development in a statement on Monday, explaining that the operations were executed in collaboration with local vigilantes and hunters.

According to Yamu, the first rescue occurred on October 14, when operatives from the Jattu Division recovered 12-year-old Blessing Anani, who had been abducted from Ayogwiri Community in Etsako West Local Government Area.

Acting on intelligence, police trailed a family member, Sunday Idornigie, who had been coerced into delivering ransom to the kidnappers near Agenebode.

Upon arrival, one of the suspects reportedly attacked Idornigie with a machete. As police advanced to rescue him, the gang opened fire, triggering a brief but fierce exchange of gunfire.

During the encounter, one suspect sustained gunshot wounds and later died at Favour Hospital, Afashio. The victim, Anani, was safely rescued, while Idornigie was hospitalised for machete injuries.

In a separate operation on October 17, Edo Police Rescue teams foiled an abduction attempt along the Igarra–Ibillo Highway.

Officers responded swiftly to a distress call, engaging suspected kidnappers in a gun battle that forced them to retreat into the bush. The intended victims—traders returning from Ibillo Market—were rescued unhurt.

CSP Yamu added that bush-combing operations were ongoing to capture the fleeing suspects and dismantle their network.

Commending the bravery of the operatives, Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement.

“Security is a shared responsibility. Together, we can rid our communities of criminal elements,” Agbonika said.

Also read: Edo Assembly Summons Police Chief Over Monarch Arrest

Through these decisive actions, the Edo Police Rescue initiative once again underscores the command’s growing success in combating insecurity and safeguarding lives across the state.