Kidnappers kill Edo security corps operative during rescue operation

By Jethro Ibileke

A operative of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), Stanley Emeni has been reportedly killed by gunmen suspected to be kidnappers.

The 43-year-old operative was killed on June 26, 2026, during a joint operation by conventional security operatives and the Corps to rescue one Tuesday Osemeke, a 60-year-old farmer abducted by suspected kidnappers in Igbanke, Orhionmwon Local Government Area of the State.

The Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command, ASP Eno Ikoedem disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen on Thursday, July 2, 2026 in Benin City.

She disclosed that the State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, in company of
Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, Innocent Nkeamatara has paid a condolence visit to the family of the deceased.

The PPRO explained that on June 26, 2026, operatives of Igbanke Division, in collaboration with operatives of ESSC, hunters, and members of the Community Safety Partnership, launched an aggressive bush-combing operation following the abduction of a 60-year-old farmer, Mr. Tuesday Osemeke, by suspected kidnappers.

According to her, the coordinated operation led to the successful rescue of the victim unharmed following a gun duel with his abductors who fled with gunshot injuries.

“During the operation, Mr. Stanley Emenin sustained gunshot injuries while courageously confronting the criminals. Sadly, despite efforts to save his life, he later succumbed to his injuries on Monday 29/6/2026 at the Hospital”, she said.

Ikoedem added that during the visit
to the bereaved family at Idumodu Community, Igbanke, the Police Commissioner described the late Stanley Emenin as a brave, selfless, and patriotic community protector
whose courage and commitment to the safety of others will never be forgotten.

Meanwhile, the Police Commissioner of Police also expressed the heartfelt condolences of the officers and men of the Edo State Police Command to the deceased’s family, friends, and the entire Igbanke Community.

While praying that God grants the family the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss, he reassured the family and members of the community that the sacrifice of the fallen vigilante would not be in vain.

“The memory of the late Stanley Emenin remains a shining example of patriotism and selfless service that will continue to inspire all those committed to protecting lives and property”, he added.

Agbonika stressed that the Command remains resolute in its determination to rid Edo State of criminal elements

He also disclosed that the Command has already reviewed aspects of its Community Safety Partnership operational framework with a view to strengthening collaboration, enhancing operational planning, improving intelligence sharing, and implementing additional safety measures.

He said the measures are aimed at reducing casualties among personnel and community volunteers involved in joint security operations.