Suspected kidnappers allegedly kill two, injure one in Edo, community sends SOS to Okpebholo
Three individuals were reportedly abducted by suspected kidnappers along the Ebelle-Amughe Road in the Okpekpe community of Etsako East Local Government Area, Edo State. According to information gathered, two of the victims were allegedly killed by their captors, while the third managed to escape, sustaining serious gunshot wounds.
The details emerged in a Save Our Soul message directed to Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo and several key officials, including the Commissioner of Police for Edo State Command, Patrick Daaor; the Director of the Department of State Services in Edo State; Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Yekini Idaiye; and Kingsley Ugabi, a member of the State House of Assembly representing Etsako East.
In a statement dated September 7, 2026, Omokhagbor Sixtus reported that the abduction occurred on August 31, 2026. The kidnappers are said to have demanded a ransom of 30 million naira for the victims’ release. In an effort to secure their freedom, 3 million naira was raised and delivered to the abductors near the Okpella-BUA axis.
Sixtus expressed deep concern over the incident, stating, “Sadly, two of the victims were killed, while the third escaped with bullet wounds.” He also highlighted the profound impact of the incident on the families involved and the wider Okpekpe community, noting an increase in fear and insecurity in the area.
“This growing insecurity poses a severe threat to the safety of residents and the overall development of Okpekpe Kingdom,” Sixtus said. He emphasized that the fear of kidnapping hampers agricultural activities, disrupts commerce, and affects educational access for children and teachers.
He urged the state government, local lawmakers, and security agencies to take immediate action to bolster security along key routes and vulnerable areas in Okpekpe Kingdom. Sixtus also called for a thorough investigation into the incident, seeking justice for the victims and support for the survivors and grieving families.
Former Etsako East Local Government Area chairperson, Princess Benedicta Attoh, also condemned the rising insecurity in the community, noting that approximately 10 individuals have lost their lives to banditry and kidnapping since November 2024. She urged Governor Okpebholo and relevant authorities to act swiftly to improve security in the region.
