The Edo State Police Command has rescued Osazee Okungbowa, a kidnapping victim abducted from his residence at Power Line area, Owanoba Community, on Friday.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, confirmed that Okungbowa has been reunited with his family after receiving medical attention. He also assured the public that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the suspects.
“On 08/02/2025 at about 17:00hrs, operatives of Ologbo division successfully rescued one Osazee Okungbowa from the grip of his abductors,” the statement read. “The victim was on 07/02/2025 at about 21:45hrs kidnapped in the presence of his family at his residence at Power Line area of Owanoba Community by five armed men. He has been reunited with his family after receiving medical attention, while the command continues with the trail of the suspects.”
In a separate incident, the police arrested Kelly Osayawe, a 25-year-old suspected cultist, for attempted murder. Osayawe, a member of the Vikings cult group, was invited by a fellow cultist, Nice, to his mother’s burial at Old Road, Aduwawa, Benin City. During the procession, Osayawe fired a locally made cut-to-size pistol into the air, but a stray pellet struck Nzube Cletus, a bystander standing in front of his store. Cletus sustained injuries to his hand, leg, and back.
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“Osayawe attempted to flee but was swiftly pursued and apprehended with the help of members of the public,” the statement added.
In another development, the police recovered a stolen Silver Toyota Yaris (BEN 535 DR) after car snatchers abandoned it while fleeing from law enforcement. According to the statement, a distress call was received on 06/02/2025 at about 14:00hrs, reporting that the car had been stolen at gunpoint at Upper Mission Extension.
“Operatives of the Okuaihe Division intercepted and pursued the car snatchers, who eventually abandoned the vehicle at Iguomon Community along Benin-Agbor Road. The car was taken to the station, identified by its owner, and handed back to him. Efforts to identify and arrest the suspects are ongoing,” the statement read.
Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Betty Otimenyin, commended residents for their cooperation and urged them to remain vigilant. She said, “If you see something, say something. Together, we can ensure a safer Edo State.”
The recent operations highlight the police’s commitment to tackling crime in the state, but they also underscore the need for continued public support to address security challenges effectively.
