Kidnapped Edo security operative fights back, escapes, rescues two victims

By Jethro Ibileke

A member of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), Yusuf Kazim, has escaped from the custody of suspected kidnappers after a dramatic confrontation in which he also rescued two other victims.

Kazim was reportedly ambushed at gunpoint on Wednesday while driving into his residence in Aya-Iyamo, Etsako West Local Government Area of the state, and was subsequently taken into the bush by his abductors.

Sources said that while in captivity, he encountered two other victims, identified as Caleb Yusuf and Himach Suleiman, who had been held after their families allegedly failed to meet ransom demands.

In a daring turn of events, Kazim engaged the kidnappers in a struggle, disarmed one of them of an AK-47 rifle and forced the assailants to flee, abandoning the weapon.

Despite sustaining severe injuries during the encounter, he managed to escape alongside the two other captives.

Confirming the incident, the Deputy Corps Commander of the ESSC, Richard Balogun, commended Kazim’s bravery and resilience, noting that he is currently in critical condition and receiving treatment at a hospital.

Balogun expressed hope for his speedy recovery, adding that the kidnappers inflicted serious injuries on him before fleeing the scene.

He further disclosed that the case has been handed over to the police for investigation, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the suspects.