GistReel

The Nigeria Police Force has announced the successful rescue of 31 kidnapped victims in separate operations in Edo and Taraba states, following intense gunfights with suspected herdsmen.

In a statement issued on Friday, Force Public Relations Officer ACP Muyiwa Adejobi described the breakthroughs as a testament to the Force’s commitment to protecting lives and enhancing national security.

In Edo State, operatives of the state police command responded to a violent kidnapping incident along the Fugar-Agenebode Road in Etsako East Local Government Area at about 7:20 p.m. on Friday, July 11, 2025. According to the police, armed assailants had ambushed travellers, killing two and abducting several others.

A swift rescue operation, jointly carried out by the police and local security forces, was launched around the Obe Hill area near the Ajaokuta axis. A fierce exchange of gunfire ensued, forcing the kidnappers to flee with gunshot wounds. Fourteen abducted victims were successfully rescued during the operation.

“In Edo, the rescue team engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel near Obe Hill, causing them to flee with various degrees of gunshot injuries. Fourteen kidnapped victims were successfully rescued,” Adejobi said, adding that efforts are underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects.

Taraba Kidnapping Incident

In a separate incident in Taraba State, police operatives responded to a distress call late Saturday night, July 12, after suspected kidnappers ambushed a white Toyota bus carrying 17 passengers from Enugu to Yola along the Wukari highway, near the Federal University Wukari.

Police, working in tandem with other security agencies, stormed the area. On spotting the approaching rescue team, the armed men abandoned their captives and escaped into the surrounding bush. All 17 passengers were rescued unharmed.

Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, commended the bravery and swift response of the operatives involved in both missions. He reaffirmed the Force’s dedication to dismantling criminal networks nationwide.

“These successful outcomes reflect the reinforced commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to citizen protection and national security,” the IGP stated, assuring Nigerians of intensified and targeted operations against all forms of criminality.



from GistReel https://ift.tt/uGkzY2L
via IFTTT