The Police Command in Edo has rescued a kidnap victim and neutralised three suspected kidnappers during a joint security operation in Igarra, Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of the state.
A statement on Monday by the command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said the operation, conducted at about 2 a.m., on Sunday, followed intelligence gathering and technical support.
Ikoedem said this led the security operatives to the Geo Works’ bushes and forest bordering Otuo, where the victim identified as Michael Akano, was being held.
According to her, the victim was reportedly abducted on Friday.
She explained that the operation involved police operatives from Igarra Division, personnel of the Nigerian Army 195 Battalion, the Department of State Services (DSS), local hunters and members of the Edo Security Corps (ESSC).
”Three suspected members of the kidnapping gang were neutralised during a gun duel, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.
“Exhibits recovered from the scene include three locally fabricated single-barrel shotguns, eight live cartridges, five expended cartridges, two cutlasses and five mobile handsets of different brands.
“The bodies of the neutralised suspects have been deposited at the General Hospital mortuary, Igarra, for autopsy.
“Bush-combing operation is still ongoing to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects,” she said.
Ikoedem quoted the state Commissioner of Police, Patrick Daaor, as commending the joint security team for what he described as ”swift response, effective collaboration and courage” during the rescue operation.
The commissioner reiterated the command’s commitment to sustaining intelligence-led operations and denying criminal elements safe havens across the state.
The police chief also urged residents to provide timely and credible information to security agencies to support efforts to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes.
