EKPOMA, Nigeria — Three students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, who were abducted by suspected kidnappers in Edo State have been rescued after a coordinated security operation that also left one suspected gang member dead and another in custody.
The rescue followed an intensive manhunt by operatives of the Edo State Police Command working alongside the Nigerian Army, the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), and local vigilante hunters.
Authorities said the operation ended at the kidnappers’ hideout deep inside Erah Forest, where security personnel engaged the suspects in a gun battle before successfully freeing the victims.
Student Killed During Initial Attack
The incident began on the night of July 12, 2026, when armed men invaded the Ujemen G.T. Extension area of Ekpoma in Esan West Local Government Area.
According to police, the attackers struck near a student hostel before abducting three undergraduates.
During the assault, Peter Ekpen Adolor, a 24-year-old 300-level Ambrose Alli University student, was fatally shot after responding to cries for help outside the hostel.
Investigators said Adolor had stepped outside to determine the source of the disturbance when one of the armed attackers opened fire, hitting him in the abdomen.
He was rushed to Eguaven Hospital in Ekpoma but was pronounced dead by medical personnel.
The gunmen then fled into nearby bushes with three students.
Commissioner Orders Immediate Rescue Mission
Speaking during a press briefing at the Nigeria Police Divisional Headquarters in Ekpoma, Edo State Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika, represented by the Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, said the command immediately activated tactical units after receiving reports of the attack.
Security teams launched a large-scale search operation involving intelligence gathering, bush-combing exercises and coordinated surveillance across suspected escape routes.
Police said the operation brought together officers from nearby divisions, military personnel, the Edo State Security Corps and local hunters familiar with the forest terrain.
Gun Battle Ends in Successful Rescue
The breakthrough came during the early hours of July 14, when security operatives tracked the kidnappers to their camp inside Erah Forest.
According to the police, the suspects opened fire upon sighting the advancing security team, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire.
The superior firepower of the joint security team reportedly forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives while attempting to flee.
During the operation:
- Three kidnapped students were rescued alive.
- One suspected kidnapper was killed.
- Another suspect was arrested with gunshot injuries.
- Several other gang members escaped into the forest and are currently being hunted.
The rescued students were identified as:
- Praise Obagbalu, 18
- Favour Okoroje, 21
- Balogun Precious, 19
Police said all three victims were taken to hospital for medical evaluation after spending days in captivity.
Weapons and Other Items Recovered
Following the operation, security personnel searched the hideout and recovered several items believed to belong to the criminal gang.
Recovered exhibits include:
- Three AK-47 rifles
- Three magazines
- Thirty-six rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition
- Five mobile phones
- Two power banks
- One charger
- One Red Cross bag
- Other items considered relevant to the investigation
Police believe the recovered weapons were used in previous kidnapping operations across Ekpoma and surrounding communities.
Victims Describe Ordeal
The rescued students later recounted their experience in captivity, saying they were repeatedly moved through different parts of the forest to prevent security operatives from locating them.
According to the students, their abductors continually pressured them to contact family members and demand ransom payments.
They expressed gratitude to the joint security team, noting that they regained their freedom without any ransom being paid.
Police Continue Hunt for Remaining Suspects
Commissioner Agbonika praised the courage and professionalism displayed by all security agencies involved in the rescue mission.
He specifically commended officers of the Edo State Police Command, personnel of the Nigerian Army, members of the Edo State Security Corps and local hunters for their collaboration during the operation.
The police chief also acknowledged the support of the Edo State Government and members of the public, whose timely information contributed to locating the kidnappers’ camp.
Authorities said investigations are continuing, while security operatives have intensified efforts to track down and arrest the remaining members of the kidnapping syndicate believed to be responsible for attacks in Ekpoma and neighbouring communities.
Police assured residents that operations would continue until every suspect connected to the crime is brought to justice.
