ABUJA – July 18, 2025 – In a series of coordinated security operations, the Nigeria Police Force has announced the rescue of thirty-one (31) kidnapped victims in separate incidents across Edo and Taraba States, reaffirming its commitment to combating banditry and kidnapping across the country.
According to a press release issued on Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Edo State Command carried out a successful rescue mission on Friday, July 11, 2025. The operation followed an ambush by suspected kidnappers along the Fugar-Agenebode road in Etsako East Local Government Area, which tragically claimed the lives of two commuters and led to the abduction of several others.
Responding swiftly, police operatives—working jointly with local security outfits—launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation in the Obe Hill area near the Ajaokuta axis. A gun duel ensued, forcing the kidnappers to flee with gunshot wounds. Fourteen (14) victims were successfully rescued unhurt.
In a related incident, police operatives in Taraba State rescued another seventeen (17) kidnapped passengers in the early hours of Saturday, July 12, 2025. The victims, who were travelling from Enugu to Yola in a white Toyota bus, were ambushed by armed men along the Wukari highway near the Federal University Wukari.
Upon receiving a distress call at about 11:45 p.m., the police, in collaboration with other security agencies, swiftly mobilized to the scene. The suspected kidnappers, on sighting the advancing security forces, fled into the bush, abandoning all 17 victims, who were rescued without injuries.
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, lauded the operatives’ prompt response and bravery, stating that the successful rescue missions reflect the Nigeria Police Force’s unwavering dedication to citizen safety and national security. He further assured the public of continued targeted operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks across the country.