Suspected kidnappers have abducted members of a family, including a nursing mother and several children, along the Eko-Abeku-Iyowa Road in the Evboneka community on the Benin–Akure Road, Edo State.
The incident reportedly occurred around 5:00 p.m. on Monday as the victims were returning from school. The abducted family members included a nursing mother, her baby, and other children.
Speaking on the incident, the head of the family, Mr Festus Bamidele, disclosed that the kidnappers later released the nursing mother and her baby due to heavy rainfall on the day of the abduction. According to him, the family only became aware of the incident when the woman and her baby returned home.
Bamidele further revealed that three other victims, who were pre-KG pupils, were later rescued through the combined efforts of vigilante members and police operatives in Evboneka community. However, four other victims, aged between 11 and 26 years, are still being held captive.
He added that the kidnappers have since contacted the family and are demanding a ransom of ₦260 million for the release of those still in captivity.
Confirming the incident, the Edo State Police Command spokesperson, SP Eno Ikoedem, said operatives from the Ekiadolor Division engaged the abductors in a gun battle, which led to the successful rescue of five victims without injuries, while four others were taken away by the kidnappers.
Meanwhile, the police have arrested two suspected kidnappers during a patrol along the Auchi–Igarra Highway in Edo North. According to the police, the suspects were identified by a vigilante member as part of a kidnapping syndicate.
The Edo State Police Command assured residents that efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining victims and bring all those involved in the crime to justice.
