Operatives of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) have successfully rescued 59-year-old farmer Aminu Yusuf from a kidnapping ordeal in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State. Yusuf was abducted while en route to his farm in Iddo, Okpella community.
According to reports, suspected kidnappers made contact with Yusuf’s family shortly after the abduction, demanding a ransom of N20 million with a strict 24-hour deadline. As the family scrambled to gather the funds, the kidnappers reportedly began inflicting machete wounds on the victim.
Acting on intelligence reports, the Okpella Command of the ESSC, in collaboration with local hunters, swiftly mobilized to the suspected location within the forest. Upon locating the kidnappers’ hideout, the ESSC team was met with gunfire. A fierce exchange ensued, forcing the criminals to flee and abandon their captive.
Yusuf, who had sustained machete injuries, was immediately taken to a hospital for medical treatment. His condition is currently stable.
ESSC Corps Commander Richard Balogun confirmed the incident and lauded his men for their bravery and the successful outcome of the rescue operation. “The kidnappers had inflicted machete cuts on the victim,” Balogun stated. “My men stormed the forest during this process and successfully rescued him. He is currently receiving the necessary medical attention.”
Balogun also issued a stern warning to scrap metal dealers against the purchase of suspected stolen items, emphasizing that offenders will face the full consequences of the law. He further added that upon completion of investigations, the apprehended suspects will be prosecuted in court.