Edo: Police foil N30m ransom demand, rescue 70-year-old kidnapped victim

By Ayox Ojo

Security operatives have successfully rescued a 70-year-old farmer identified as Pa Jonah Owobu of Uwalo Oke community in Uromi part of the state from kidnappers.

The wife of Pa Owobu had reported to the police that her husband was missing on 21st April, 2026.

She told the police that failed to return from his farm on 20th April, 2026 and later on the same day, unknown individuals contacted the family demanding a ransom of ₦30 million for his release.

Eno Ikoedem, the spokesperson of Edo Police Command said on receipt of the report, the Amedokhian Divisional Police Officer, promptly mobilized a joint team comprising Police operatives, military personnel, local hunters, and members of the Edo State Security Corps for an immediate search and rescue operation within the forest.

She said during the operation, the victim’s abandoned motorcycle and personal belongings were recovered along a forest route, which guided operatives deeper into the area.

The Edo Police Command spokesperson added that the team eventually located the hideout where the victim was being held.

She added that on sighting the advancing operatives, the suspected kidnappers fled into the bush, abandoning the victim.

“The victim was successfully rescued unhurt and has since been reunited with his family,” Ikoedem said.

She added that intensive bush combing and a manhunt for the fleeing suspects are ongoing, with a view to apprehending them and bringing them to justice.

“The Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, reiterates the Command’s unwavering commitment to combating kidnapping and all forms of criminality in the State. He further assures residents of sustained security operations and urges members of the public to continue to provide timely and credible information to the Police,” Ikoedem said in the statement.