The Edo State Police Command has successfully rescued three students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, who were abducted by gunmen in Esan West Local Government Area.
The rescue operation, carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, the Edo State Security Corps, and local hunters, also led to the death of one suspected kidnapper and the arrest of another.
The incident occurred on Sunday, July 12, 2026, when armed men attacked the Ujemen G.T. Extension area of Ekpoma.
During the assault, a 24-year-old student, Peter Ekpen Adolor, was shot while attempting to respond to distress calls near his hostel. He was rushed to Eguaven Hospital but was later confirmed dead.
The abducted students, Praise Obagbalu (18), Favour Okoroje (21), and Balogun Precious (19) were taken into the forest by their captors, who demanded ransom from their families.
Acting on intelligence, security operatives launched a coordinated operation in Erah Forest on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, engaging the kidnappers in a fierce gun battle.
According to the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, represented by Police Public Relations Officer Eno Ikoedem, the superior firepower of the joint team forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives.
The three students were rescued unharmed and taken to hospital for medical evaluation.Recovered items from the hideout included three AK-47 rifles, magazines, 36 rounds of live ammunition, mobile phones, power banks, and other incriminating materials.
The police confirmed that one suspect was neutralised, while another was apprehended with gunshot injuries.
The rescued students recounted their ordeal, explaining that they were repeatedly moved within the forest while their captors pressured them to contact relatives for ransom.
They expressed relief at being freed without any payment.Commissioner Agbonika commended the bravery and professionalism of the security forces and thanked the Edo State Government and members of the public for their timely support and credible information.
He assured that operations are ongoing to track down fleeing members of the gang and bring them to justice.
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