Edo Police Foil N30m Ransom Plot, Rescue 70-Year-Old Kidnap Victim Unharmed
The Edo State Police Command has successfully rescued a 70-year-old man abducted in Uromi, thwarting a N30 million ransom demand in a swift, coordinated operation.
The victim, identified as Pa Jonah Owobu of Uwalo Oke, was reported missing on April 20, 2026, after failing to return from his farm. According to police authorities, his family later received a call from unknown individuals around 9:30 p.m. the same day, demanding N30 million for his release.
Acting on the report received at about 7:10 a.m. on April 21, operatives led by the Divisional Police Officer in Amedokhian mobilised a joint rescue team comprising police personnel, military operatives, local hunters, and members of the Edo State Security Corps.
During the search, the victim’s abandoned motorcycle and personal belongings were discovered along a forest path, providing critical leads that guided operatives to the kidnappers’ hideout.
On sighting the advancing security team, the suspects reportedly fled into the bush, abandoning the victim at the location.
The elderly man was rescued unhurt and has since been reunited with his family.
Police authorities confirmed that a manhunt is ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.
The Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to tackling kidnapping and other criminal activities, urging residents to continue providing timely and credible information to support security operations.
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