Edo Police Rescue Three Kidnapped AAU Students, Neutralise One Suspected Kidnapper

The Edo State Police Command has successfully rescued three students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, who were abducted by suspected kidnappers in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State.  

The students were kidnapped on *Sunday, July 12, 2026*, during an attack at the Ujemen G.T. Extension area of Ekpoma. Tragically, one student, Peter Ekpen, a 24-year-old 300-level undergraduate, lost his life during the incident.  

The rescued students have been identified as Praise Obagbalu (18), Favour Okoroji (21), and Balogun Precious (19).  

Addressing journalists on Tuesday at the Nigeria Police Divisional Headquarters in Ekpoma, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Monday Agbonika, represented by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Eno Ikoedem, said the command swiftly responded after receiving a distress report of the abduction.  

According to the police, the Commissioner immediately deployed tactical teams for a coordinated rescue mission involving the Nigerian Army, the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), and local vigilante.  

The joint operation led security operatives to the kidnappers' hideout in Erah Forest, where a fierce gun battle ensued. During the exchange of fire, one suspected kidnapper was neutralised, while another sustained gunshot wounds and was arrested. The three abducted students were rescued safely without paying any ransom.  

The operation also resulted in the recovery of three AK-47 rifles, three magazines, 36 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, five mobile phones, two power banks, a charger, a lady's handbag, and other incriminating items.  

Commissioner Agbonika commended the courage, professionalism, and resilience of officers and personnel of the Edo State Police Command, the Nigerian Army, the Edo State Security Corps, and the local hunters whose collaboration made the successful rescue possible.  

He also expressed appreciation to the Edo State Government and members of the public for providing timely and credible intelligence that contributed significantly to the operation.  

Speaking after their rescue, the three students narrated that they were kept deep inside the forest and moved from one location to another by their captors, who repeatedly pressured them to contact their families for ransom. They expressed gratitude to the joint security team for rescuing them safely before any ransom was paid.  

The successful operation has been widely welcomed by residents of Ekpoma, who praised the coordinated efforts of the security agencies and expressed hope that the development will strengthen ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and restore lasting peace across the community.