One Student Killed, Suspected Kidnapper Neutralised as Joint Security Team Storms Forest Hideout
The Edo State Police Command has rescued three abducted students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, following a joint security operation that led to the recovery of three AK-47 rifles, ammunition and the neutralisation of a suspected kidnapper.
Police said the incident occurred on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at about 9:00 p.m., when armed men suspected to be kidnappers attacked Ujemen G.T. Extension, Ekpoma.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikedem, one Peter Ekpen Adolor, a 24-year-old 300-level AAU student, was shot in the abdomen after responding to distress cries outside a hostel gate. He was rushed to Eguaven Hospital, Ekpoma, where he was confirmed dead.
The gunmen subsequently abducted three female students: Favour Okoroje (21), Balogun Precious (19) and Praise Obagbalu (18), before fleeing into a nearby forest.
Following the report, Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, ordered the immediate deployment of tactical teams, the Ekpoma Division, the Nigerian Army, the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) and local hunters for a coordinated rescue operation.
The joint security team carried out intelligence-led bush-combing operations and, at about 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 14, located the kidnappers’ hideout in Erah Forest, where a fierce gun battle ensued.
The superior firepower of the security operatives forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives and flee. The three students were rescued alive and taken to hospital for medical evaluation and treatment.
During the operation, security personnel recovered three AK-47 rifles with magazines, 36 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, five mobile phones, two power banks, one Red Cross bag and one charger.
One suspected kidnapper was neutralised, while another was arrested with serious gunshot injuries. Police said efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang believed to be responsible for kidnapping activities in Ekpoma and surrounding communities.
The Command expressed sadness over the death of Peter Ekpen Adolor and extended condolences to his family, the management of Ambrose Alli University and the student community.
Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika commended the professionalism and bravery of the Police, Nigerian Army, Edo State Security Corps and local hunters, while appreciating the Edo State Government and members of the public for their support and timely intelligence.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against kidnappers and other violent criminals across Edo State.
