Edo: Police foil kidnap attempt, rescue traders along Igarra–Ibillo highway

Edo State Police Command has foiled a kidnap attempt and rescued several traders along the Igarra–Ibillo highway in Akoko Edo Local Government Area of the state.

Spokesperson for the command, SP Moses Yamu, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, noting that the swift intervention of police operatives forced the kidnappers to abandon their victims and flee into the bush.

According to Yamu, the incident occurred on Friday, October 17, 2025, when the traders were returning from the popular Ibillo Market.

He said, “At about 8:30 p.m. on October 17, 2025, the command received a distress call reporting the activities of suspected kidnappers along the Igarra–Ibillo highway. The Divisional Police Officer, Igarra, immediately mobilised his men, supported by the command’s Operation Rescue teams, to the scene.

“On sighting the advancing operatives, the hoodlums opened fire but were swiftly overpowered and forced to retreat into the forest, abandoning their captives, who were subsequently rescued unhurt. Search and combing operations are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.”

The Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, commended the officers for their professionalism and courage, as well as the support of local vigilantes and hunters who assisted in the operation.

He urged residents to remain alert and continue partnering with security agencies by promptly reporting any suspicious movements or criminal activities within their communities.

“Security is a collective responsibility,” Agbonika said.

“With continued cooperation and timely intelligence sharing, we can ensure our highways and communities remain safe for all,” he added.