A 300-level student at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Peter Ekpen Adolor, has been shot dead by gunmen suspected of kidnapping.

The late 24-year-old Adolor was reportedly shot in the abdomen on Sunday when gunmen attacked the Ujemen G.T. Extension area of Ekpoma.

He was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital.

The gunmen also abducted three female AAU students and escaped into the bush.

The abducted students were named as Favour Okoroje, aged 21; Balogun Precious, aged 19; and Praise Obagbalu, aged 18.

Edo Police spokesman Eno Ikoedem, speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, said the three kidnapped students have been rescued unhurt.

Ikoedem said one of the kidnappers was killed in the process.

According to her, “Upon receipt of the report, the Commissioner of Police immediately ordered the deployment of tactical teams and nearby Police Divisions, including Ekpoma Division, who were detailed for a joint rescue mission in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), and local hunters. The team subsequently conducted coordinated bush-combing and intelligence-led operations aimed at rescuing the hostages unhurt and apprehending the perpetrators.

“The joint security team located the kidnappers’ hideout in Erah Forest and engaged the criminals in a fierce gun battle.

“The superior tactical response of the security operatives forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives and flee. During the operation, the three kidnapped Ambrose Alli University students were successfully rescued alive and rushed to the hospital for medical attention.

“The operation also led to the recovery of three AK-47 rifles with magazines, 36 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, five mobile phones, two power banks, one red cross bag and one charger. One suspected kidnapper was neutralised, while another was apprehended with serious gunshot injuries. Operations are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing members of the notorious gang that specialised in kidnapping at Ekpoma and environs, thereby ensuring that they are brought to justice.” (The Nation)

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