•Policemen
The Edo State Police Command has rescued three students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, who were abducted by suspected kidnappers, following a joint security operation involving the Police, Nigerian Army, Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), and local hunters.
Addressing journalists in Benin City yesterday on behalf of the Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Monday Agbonika, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, Eno Ikoedem, said the students were rescued during a gun battle with the kidnappers at their hideout in Erah Forest in the early hours of July 14.
The police said the incident began on Sunday, July 12, at about 9:00 p.m. when armed men attacked Ujemen G.T. Extension in Ekpoma. During the attack, Peter Ekpen Adolor, a 24-year-old 300-level student of Ambrose Alli University, was shot in the abdomen after responding to distress calls outside a hostel gate, reports Channels TV.
He was rushed to Eguaven Hospital, Ekpoma, where he was confirmed dead. The attackers subsequently abducted three female students before escaping into a nearby forest.
According to the police, the Commissioner of Police immediately deployed tactical teams, officers from nearby divisions, and other security agencies for a coordinated rescue mission backed by intelligence-led operations and bush-combing exercises.
The operation culminated in a fierce exchange of gunfire with the kidnappers at about 6:00 a.m. yesterday, forcing the suspects to abandon their captives and flee.
The rescued students were identified as Favour Okoroje, 21; Balogun Precious, 19; and Praise Obagbalu, 18. They were taken to the hospital for medical evaluation and treatment.
Police also recovered three AK-47 rifles with magazines, 36 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, five mobile phones, two power banks, a Red Cross bag, and a charger.
One suspected kidnapper was neutralised during the operation, while another was arrested with gunshot injuries. The Command said efforts are ongoing to arrest other members of the gang.
The Police Command expressed condolences to the family of the late Peter Ekpen Adolor, the management of Ambrose Alli University, and the student community over his death.
The Commissioner of Police commended the professionalism and courage of the Police, the Nigerian Army, the Edo State Security Corps, and local hunters for the successful rescue operation. He also appreciated the Edo State government and members of the public for providing timely information that aided the operation.
