The Edo State Police Command successfully rescued nine kidnapping victims with the aid of drone technology. The command’s spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, released a statement on Saturday detailing the operation that took place in the Egbojo Ikabigbo community, Jattu, Etsako West Local Government Area.
Responding to a kidnapping report, the Divisional Police Officer and his team, along with local vigilantes and hunters, were immediately deployed. Commissioner of Police Mr. Monday Agbonika then activated the Eagle Combat Drone Unit for its inaugural rescue mission.
On January 9, 2026, at approximately 4:25 a.m., the drone unit pinpointed the kidnappers’ camp, providing real-time aerial intelligence. Ground troops swiftly stormed the location, causing the criminals to flee and abandon two locally-made AK-49 rifles. The victims, consisting of one adult male, three adult females, and five children, were rescued unharmed.
ASP Ikoedem emphasized the operation as a significant milestone, highlighting the increasing importance of technology in contemporary policing within Edo State.
In addition to the rescue, the command reported multiple arrests and recoveries from various coordinated security operations across the state. A stolen black Toyota Yaris was recovered, and a suspected armed robbery syndicate member was apprehended. Seven members of an armed robbery gang connected to the murder of a PoS operator were also arrested, with weapons and a vehicle used in their operations seized.
Furthermore, a stolen Lexus 330 SUV was recovered, leading to the arrest of a suspect. Another suspected armed robber was apprehended following a distress call. In Uromi, a child trafficking syndicate was dismantled, resulting in the rescue of a newborn baby boy and the recovery of N1.4 million in illicit funds.
Commissioner of Police Agbonika has assured residents of the command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging the public to continue providing timely and credible information to support security operations.
