Gun Battle in Edo: Police rescue victims, neutralise suspect

By Jethro Ibileke

Operatives of the Igarra Division of the Edo State Police Command have successfully foiled a kidnap attempt and rescued the would-be victims unhurt.

The incident occurred on Friday, 17 October 2025, along the Igarra–Ibillo highway.

According to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Yamu, the operation was in response to a distress call.

“The DPO, Igarra, swiftly mobilised operatives, including the Command’s Operation Rescue Teams, to the scene.

“On sighting the approaching security team, the hoodlums engaged in gunfire but were overpowered and forced to flee into the bush, abandoning their intended victims — traders returning from Ibillo Market.

“All victims were rescued unharmed, while bush-combing operations remain ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects,” the statement read.

In a related development, operatives of the Jattu Division of the Command have successfully rescued a 12-year-old kidnap victim, Blessing Anani, and neutralised one of the suspected kidnappers.

Yamu disclosed that the operation was carried out in collaboration with local vigilantes and hunters. They trailed a family member of the victim, one Sunday Idornigie, who had been coerced into delivering ransom 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, dislodging the kidnappers.

“Consequently, the victim, Blessing Anani, was rescued unhurt, while Sunday Idornigie, who sustained machete injuries, was evacuated for medical treatment.

“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 gang members fled into the bush with suspected gunshot wounds.

“A blood-stained machete was recovered, and investigations are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects,” Yamu stated.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, has commended the professionalism and bravery displayed by the officers, as well as the collaborative efforts of vigilantes and local hunters.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting the Command by promptly reporting suspicious activities and providing actionable intelligence.