Edo: Security operatives neutralise suspect, arrest another over 300-level AAU student’s abduction, killing
Security Forces Neutralize Suspected Kidnapper Following Student’s Death
BENIN CITY, Nigeria — Security forces from the Edo State Police Command, the Nigerian Army, the Edo State Security Corps, and local hunters have neutralized a suspected kidnapper connected to the murder of a 24-year-old student from Ambrose Alli University (AAU). The victim, Peter Ekpen Adolor, was reportedly shot at his off-campus residence on July 12.
Authorities confirmed that the joint operation also led to the arrest of another suspect and the rescue of three female students abducted during the incident. The rescued individuals were identified as Favour Okoroje, 21; Balogun Precious, 19; and Praise Obagbalu, 18. All three were taken to a hospital for medical attention.
The operation, which took place in the early hours of July 14, was detailed in a statement by ASP Eno Ikoedem, the Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command. She noted that tactical teams from the command and nearby police divisions, including Ekpoma, were dispatched to conduct a joint rescue mission with the Nigerian Army, the ESSC, and local hunters.
Ikoedem explained that the teams located the kidnappers’ hideout in Erah Forest after receiving a distress call about the initial attack. In the ensuing gun battle, the security forces reported successfully forcing the kidnappers to abandon their captives.
The police were alerted to the situation when a distress signal was received shortly before 9 p.m. on July 12, concerning armed individuals at Ujemen G.T. Extension in Ekpoma. During the attack, Ekpen Adolor attempted to investigate the disturbance outside a hostel and was shot in the abdomen by one of the assailants. He was pronounced dead upon arrival at Eguaven Hospital.
In addition to neutralizing one suspect, authorities recovered three AK-47 rifles, 36 rounds of live ammunition, five mobile phones, and several other items during the operation. Ikoedem confirmed that one of the apprehended suspects sustained serious injuries.
Ongoing operations are being conducted to locate and apprehend the remaining members of the kidnapping gang, which has been active in Ekpoma and surrounding areas.
Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika commended the joint security team for their bravery and professionalism and extended condolences to Adolor’s family and the university community following this tragic event.
