Eleven farm workers abducted by suspected kidnappers in Edo State have regained their freedom after security operatives engaged the criminals in a gun battle deep inside a forest in Etsako East Local Government Area.
The Edo State Police Command said the victims were rescued during a joint operation involving officers of the Iyahmo Division, local vigilantes and hunters following a distress call from Ogbido Community in Iyahmo on Thursday, June 25, 2026.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikioedem, the rescue team swiftly mobilised and launched a search operation in the surrounding forest where the victims were believed to have been taken.
The operation eventually led to a confrontation with the kidnappers, resulting in what the police described as 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 said.
The rescued victims comprised nine men and two women.
Police authorities confirmed that all 11 victims were rescued unharmed and taken to a hospital for medical examination before they were reunited with their families.
The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, praised the bravery and determination of the police operatives, local vigilantes and hunters whose swift intervention made the rescue operation successful.
He assured residents that the Command had intensified security operations across the area and remained committed to protecting lives and property.
The Police Commissioner also appealed to members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to strengthen the fight against crime and criminality in the State.
Meanwhile, the Command said efforts were ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.
