Police rescue abducted twins after father’s brutal killing in Edo

By Jethro Ibileke

The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of 16-year-old twins, Emmanuel and Emmanuella Okhale, who were abducted by armed men in Etsako East Local Government Area of the state.

The twins were kidnapped on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at their family residence in Kalabar Quarters, Afokpella, after gunmen forcefully broke into the house, reportedly switching off the generator before laying an ambush.

It was gathered that the attackers lay in wait until the children’s father, Ilabeshi Okhale, stepped outside to investigate the sudden power outage.

He was immediately attacked and brutally macheted, leaving him critically injured and bleeding.

The assailants subsequently abducted the twins and marched them into the surrounding bush. Mr. Okhale was later rushed to Ajie Hospital but was confirmed dead on arrival due to the severity of his injuries.

Following the abduction, the kidnappers reportedly contacted the family, demanding a ransom of ₦100 million for the release of the children.

Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said operatives swiftly responded after receiving the distress report.

She disclosed that a joint security operation involving the police, the Nigerian Army, the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), local hunters and vigilante groups was launched, leading to an intensive bush-combing exercise.

“The coordinated effort paid off, as the twins were rescued unhurt and have since been reunited with their family,” Ikoedem said.

She added that investigations are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice.