The Edo State Police Command announced the successful rescue of 37 kidnapped victims, including the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Esan West Local Government Area, following a series of operations throughout the state.
The announcement was made by Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, during a press briefing in Benin City on Wednesday, outlining his accomplishments in his first 30 days in office.
According to Commissioner Agbonika, all 37 victims were rescued without the payment of ransom, thanks to coordinated, intelligence-led operations involving various security agencies. He highlighted the rescue of the PDP chairman, who was abducted on April 15th while working on his farm in Emu Forest, stating he was freed on May 7th after an intensive search conducted by police and allied security forces.
“These 37 rescues are a direct result of collaborative bush-combing operations involving the military, Air Force, civil defense, local hunters, and vigilantes,” Agbonika stated.
In addition to the rescued victims, the police commissioner reported the recovery of 25 firearms, including two AK-47 rifles, and the arrest of 12 suspected kidnappers and 95 robbery suspects within the same period. Other recovered items included 165 rounds of live ammunition, a Mercedes-Benz GLK 300, a Toyota Hilux truck, a Toyota Highlander, motorcycles, and N115,000 in cash.
Agbonika emphasized the importance of community engagement and collaboration with stakeholders as a cornerstone of the command’s strategy to combat insecurity in the state.
Addressing the issue of farmer-herder tensions, the Commissioner acknowledged the sensitivity of the situation but maintained that it was manageable. He stressed the necessity for conscious efforts to rebuild trust between farmers and pastoralists.
“We are reforming the vigilante structure to ensure that local security outfits operate only within their communities and with proper oversight,” he said, further cautioning against the illegal possession of firearms and warning that all unauthorized weapons would be confiscated regardless of the owner’s position.
Commissioner Agbonika expressed his gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and Governor Monday Okpebholo for their ongoing support, assuring residents that the command remains dedicated to dismantling all criminal networks operating within Edo State.
