The Edo State Police Command has rescued a kidnap victim, neutralised one suspected kidnapper and recovered ₦1.5 million ransom during a joint forest operation in Esan South-East Local Government Area of the state.
The operation was conducted at about 9:20 p.m. on Thursday, August 6, 2026, following the abduction of a resident of Urueun Quarters, Ubiaja, on August 5.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, operatives from the Nigeria Police Force, Ubiaja Division, alongside personnel of the Nigerian Army and members of the Edo State Security Network, acted on credible intelligence and technical surveillance to launch the operation in Onogolo/Oria Forest.
The security team reportedly positioned itself along the route where the kidnappers were expected to collect the ransom.
When the suspects arrived at the location, they allegedly opened fire while attempting to escape, resulting in a gun battle with the security operatives.
One suspected kidnapper was neutralised during the exchange, while two others reportedly fled into the forest with suspected gunshot injuries.
The police said a manhunt had been launched for the fleeing suspects.
The kidnapped victim was rescued unhurt, while the ₦1.5 million ransom intended for his release was recovered intact at the scene.
The police added that the victim was medically examined before being reunited with his family.
The Command commended the police personnel, Nigerian Army and Edo State Security Network for their bravery and effective coordination during the operation.
It described the operation as part of its intensified intelligence-led efforts to tackle kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.
The Command assured residents that all available resources were being deployed to apprehend the fleeing suspects and urged members of the public to provide timely and useful information to security agencies.
It further stressed that sustained cooperation from residents remains essential to combating violent crime in the state.