The police command in Edo State says it rescued 11 farmers kidnapped from their farms in the Ogbido community, Iyahmo, in Etsako West Local Government Area.
Eno Ikoedem, the spokesperson for the command, said the operation followed a distress call on June 25, at about 8:20 p.m.
“On 25th June, 2026, at about 2020hrs, following a distress call alleging that eleven (11) persons were kidnapped from their farms in Ogbido Community at Iyahmo,” she said.
She said operatives of Iyahmo Division, led by the divisional police officer, in collaboration with local vigilantes and hunters, swiftly embarked on a rescue operation within the surrounding forest.
“During the operation, the rescue team encountered the kidnappers, leading to a fierce gun duel. Overwhelmed by the superior firepower and tactical response of the operatives, the kidnappers abandoned their captives and fled into the forest,” Ms Ikoedem said.
The rescued victims were identified as Braimah Destiny, 46 years; Aruna Idris, 38 years; Abudu Sharafadeem, 38 years; Nonso Ana, 30 years; Abdulilia Ozigi, 26 years; Lambo James, 27 years; Wasia Abdul, 48 years; Lucky Emmanuel, 24 years; and Suleman Aliyu, 25 years.
Others are Godwin Elizabeth, 28 and James Favour, 28.
“The victims were taken to the hospital for examination and have since been reunited with their families,” she added.
The spokesperson said efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.