The Nigeria Police Force has announced the rescue of 31 kidnapped victims in two separate operations carried out in Edo and Taraba States.
This was disclosed in a statement released on Friday, July 18, 2025, by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
According to the statement, the first operation occurred on Friday, July 11, in Edo State, where suspected kidnappers ambushed travelers along the Fugar-Agenebode Road in Etsako East Local Government Area. The attack claimed the lives of two commuters, while several others were abducted.
“Police operatives of the Edo State Command, in collaboration with local security outfits, immediately launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation in the Obe Hill area near the Ajaokuta axis,” the Force spokesperson revealed. “The team engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel, which forced the criminals to flee with gunshot injuries. Fourteen victims were successfully rescued.”
In a similar incident, the police responded to a distress call late Saturday, July 12, along the Wukari highway in Taraba State. The statement noted that a white Toyota bus carrying 17 passengers from Enugu to Yola, Adamawa State, had been intercepted by armed men suspected to be kidnappers.
“Upon receiving the alert, operatives mobilised swiftly, working in synergy with other security agencies,” Adejobi stated. “On sighting the approaching security forces, the kidnappers fled into the bush, abandoning all 17 kidnapped victims who were rescued unharmed.”
The Force spokesperson added that investigations are ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects in both incidents.
He also quoted the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, as commending the gallantry of the operatives involved, noting that the operations underscore the Force’s reinforced commitment to protecting citizens and dismantling criminal networks.
“These outcomes reflect our renewed determination to rid the country of criminal elements,” the IGP was quoted as saying. “We urge Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue to support security efforts nationwide.”
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its dedication to intensifying intelligence-led operations and urged anyone with useful information to come forward to assist ongoing investigations.