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A 70-year-old farmer, Jonah Owobu of Uwalo Oke, Uromi area of Edo State has been rescued by a joint team of security operatives after being kidnapped from his farm.
In a Saturday statement, Edo State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Eno Ikoedem said the farmer’s wife reported on April 21 at the Amedokhian Division that her husband had not returned from the farm on April 20.
She further reported that at about 9:30 pm on the same day, unknown individuals contacted the family demanding a ransom of N30 million for his release.
The police spokesperson said upon receipt of the report, the Amedokhian Divisional Police Officer, promptly mobilized a joint team comprising police operatives, military personnel, local hunters, and members of the Edo State Security Corps for an immediate search and rescue operation within the forest.
The statement reads, “During the operation, the victim’s abandoned motorcycle and personal belongings were recovered along a forest route, which guided operatives deeper into the area.
“The team eventually located the hideout where the victim was being held. On sighting the advancing operatives, the suspected kidnappers fled into the bush, abandoning the victim.
“The victim was successfully rescued unhurt and has since been reunited with his family.”
The command said it has launched an intensive bush combing and manhunt for the fleeing suspects, with a view to apprehending them and bringing them to justice.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, reiterated the command’s unwavering commitment to combating kidnapping and all forms of criminality in the State.
He further assured residents of sustained security operations and urged members of the public to continue to provide timely and credible information to the police.
