Police rescue couple, arrest five suspected kidnappers in Edo forest operation
By: Zagazola Makama
Police operatives in Edo State on Sunday rescued a couple kidnapped by armed men and arrested five suspected kidnappers in a forest operation in Igun Forest, Agbede, Esan West Local Government Area.
Sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred after a distress call from Ochodo Community on Jan. 24, reporting sporadic shooting by unknown gunmen and the abduction of Mr. Michael Salisu and his wife, Mrs. Salisu.
“On receipt of the information, joint teams of police operatives, local vigilantes, and hunters launched an intensive manhunt.
At about 11:00 a.m. on Jan. 25, the suspects were engaged and dislodged from the forest, leading to the rescue of the victims,” the source said.
The source added that five suspects were arrested in connection with the crime, identified as Nura Ibrahim, 22; Suleiman Aruna, 23; Usman Abubakar, 30; Mohammed Abubakar, 32; and Isah Ibrahim, 27.
Items recovered during the operation included eight live 9mm ammunition rounds, nine 9mm empty shells, and five Android phones.
The source said preliminary investigation was ongoing, and further efforts were being made to apprehend other fleeing suspects.
