The Edo State Police Command on Saturday said it rescued 11 people who were abducted by suspected kidnappers from their farms in Ogbido Community, Iyahmo, in Etsako East Local Government Area of the state.

It said that the victims were rescued during a coordinated operation carried out by operatives of the Iyahmo Division, local vigilantes, and hunters following a distress call received on Thursday, June 25, 2026.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikioedem, the rescue team immediately launched a search operation in the surrounding forest where the victims were believed to have been taken.

The statement said the operatives encountered the kidnappers, leading to a fierce gun duel.

“Overwhelmed by the superior firepower and tactical response of the operatives, the kidnappers abandoned their captives and fled into the forest,” the statement revealed.

The rescued victims comprised nine males and two females.

Police said all the victims were rescued unhurt and taken to a hospital for medical examination before being reunited with their families.

The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, commended the gallantry and resilience of the police operatives, local vigilantes, and hunters whose prompt response led to the successful rescue operation

He assured residents that the Command has intensified security operations across the area and remains committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property.

The police commissioner also appealed to members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to aid the fight against crime and criminality in the state.

Meanwhile, the Command said efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects. (Channels TV)