In a dramatic rescue operation, four victims, including a 60-year-old man and two children, were freed from their captors by the Edo State Police. The operation took place on Sunday afternoon, after a distress call reported a kidnapping incident along the Okada-Ayekun camp in Utese.
The victims, identified as David Ayanbode, 60 years old, Elizabeth Akpoyomare, 40 years old, and her two children, Excel (10) and Flourish (8), were found tied up by the kidnappers when police arrived on the scene. Fortunately, they were rescued without injury.
According to a statement from the Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Moses Yamu, the police were quick to respond to the distress call, arriving at the scene around 2:00 PM. Upon their arrival, a gun duel ensued between the kidnappers and the police. The kidnappers, unable to withstand the superior firepower of the police operatives, fled, abandoning the victims behind.
“The kidnappers succumbed to the superior firepower of the Police and fled leaving their victims who were tied down,” the statement read.
The police’s timely intervention and the subsequent gunfight led to the safe rescue of the four victims, who were unharmed despite their terrifying ordeal. They were later reunited with their families, bringing relief to their loved ones who had been anxiously waiting for their return.
The Edo State Police Command has reassured the public that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects. The police have also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
SP Moses Yamu, the police spokesperson, emphasized the importance of community involvement in tackling crime. “We encourage all law-abiding citizens to report suspicious persons or movements to the nearest police station or call our emergency numbers,” Yamu said.
The public response to this rescue has been positive, with many commending the police for their swift action. However, the growing issue of kidnapping in Edo State has raised concerns. In recent months, there has been an increase in reports of abductions across the state, with both locals and travelers falling victim to the menace.
The police’s success in this case offers a glimmer of hope, but it also highlights the continued challenge law enforcement faces in dealing with the rising wave of kidnapping across the region. Kidnappers often target vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly and children, in their attempts to extort money from families or communities.
This recent rescue brings into sharp focus the need for more robust security measures and heightened awareness among residents. Community leaders and citizens are now calling for more collaboration between the police and local communities to curb the increasing rate of kidnappings.
As investigations continue into the escape of the suspects, the Edo State Police Command has appealed to the public for any information that may help in their capture.
The police urge anyone with information to reach out to the following numbers: 08077773721 or 08037646272.
Authorities continue to stress that, while kidnappings remain a serious threat, timely intervention by law enforcement can make a significant difference in ensuring the safety and well-being of the public.
This successful operation is a testament to the determination of the Edo State Police to tackle crime and ensure justice for victims. The police have promised to remain vigilant and committed to fighting crime, sending a clear message to criminals that law enforcement will not back down in their efforts to protect the people.
