The Edo State Police Command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups, has successfully rescued seven kidnapped victims from Ikeken Forest in Ewohimi, located in the Esan South-East Local Government Area of Edo State, southern Nigeria.
Okay News reports that the victims were abducted while farming in the forest by armed men suspected to be kidnappers. The operation, which took place after the abduction on November 1, 2025, was led by the Divisional Police Officer of Ewohimi Division.
In a statement issued by the Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, Emem Ikoedem, the command said the rescue was achieved after an intense search and coordinated raid on the forest. The operation forced the kidnappers to flee, abandoning their captives.
“The Edo State Police Command has recorded another major breakthrough in its ongoing campaign against kidnapping and violent crimes,” the statement read. “All seven victims were rescued unhurt and have since been reunited with their families.”
The rescued victims were identified as William Akhabue, Innocent Ebarekor, Rachel Ebarekor, Efuah Ebarekor, Winner Ebarekor, William Omozokpia, and Lucky Igiese, popularly known as Bulala.
The Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, praised the officers, soldiers, and vigilantes who participated in the operation for their bravery and professionalism. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property in Edo State and emphasized that efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspects.
Residents were also urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or persons to nearby police stations or via emergency lines: 08077773721, 08037646272, and 08100389992.
In October 2025, the Edo State Police Command also rescued eight passengers kidnapped along the Benin–Akure Road, as authorities intensify operations to dismantle criminal networks across the state.
