According to a statement released by the deputy spokesperson, Jennifer Iwegbu, operatives of the Edo State Police Command have successfully neutralized three suspected kidnappers and rescued a 13-month-old baby in Achigbor community, which is located in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area of the state.
The incident occurred when the kidnappers invaded a compound in the community and forcefully took the child from the mother.
“Distressed residents of Achigbor Community along Benin – Auchi road, in Uhunmwonde LGA of Edo State raised an alarm at about 1930hrs on 13/09/2022. The Police Operatives on pin-down along that axis immediately mobilized and moved to the scene, where they found an empty compound that had been vandalized. Elizabeth Ojo, a 42-year-old woman, was screaming that her 13-month-old baby had been abducted,” the statement read.
She explained that some suspected kidnappers had vandalized her property and taken her 13-month-old baby into the bush.
“The operatives immediately ventured into the bush in an attempt to rescue the baby. Upon sighting the operatives, the kidnappers threw the baby into the bush and opened fire on them.”
“In the ensuing exchange of fire, 3 of the 6 kidnappers were overpowered by the superior firepower of the police. The remaining three fled the scene, while the search for them in the surrounding area is ongoing,” the statement said.
The baby, who was unharmed, has been returned to the mother. Additionally, one cut-to-size double barrel gun, one cutlass, and one battle axe were recovered at the scene.
The Commissioner of Police CP Abutu Yaro commended the operatives for their swift response and urged the people of Edo State to remain vigilant, especially as the year is coming to a close.
He also assured the public that the command will continue to respond promptly to all complaints.