Police Rescue Three Abducted AAU Students, Recover Arms in Edo

The Edo State Police Command has rescued three students of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, who were abducted by suspected kidnappers during a coordinated joint security operation in Esan West Local Government Area of the state.

The operation also led to the death of one suspected kidnapper, the arrest of another, and the recovery of arms and other incriminating items.

The rescued students, identified as Praise Obagbalu, Favour Okoroji and Balogun Precious, were kidnapped on July 12 during an attack at the Ujemen G.T. Extension area of Ekpoma. The incident also claimed the life of a 300-level student, Peter Ekpen, who was shot dead by the attackers.

Speaking in Ekpoma, the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, represented by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said the rescue followed a joint operation involving tactical police teams, the Nigerian Army, the Edo State Security Corps and local hunters after a distress call was received.

According to the police, operatives tracked the kidnappers to their hideout in Erah Forest, where they engaged them in a gun battle. One suspect was neutralised, another was arrested with gunshot wounds, while the three students were rescued unharmed.

The operation also led to the recovery of three AK-47 rifles, magazines, ammunition, mobile phones, power banks and other exhibits believed to be linked to the criminal gang.

The rescued students recounted how they were moved from one location to another inside the forest while their captors demanded ransom from their families.

The Edo State Police Command said efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang as security agencies intensify operations to improve security and protect lives and property across the state.