Police Kill Two Suspected Kidnappers in Fierce Gun Battle

Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have killed two suspected kidnappers during a gun battle in Ubiaja, Esan South East Local Government Area of the state.

The command’s spokesperson, CSP Moses Yamu, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, noting that the incident followed an intelligence-led operation carried out by the Amedokhian Tactical Division in collaboration with local hunters and vigilante groups. He said the operation, which took place on Tuesday, September 30, was led by SP Peter Ogah along the railway track leading to Ubiaja.

According to Yamu, the suspected kidnappers opened fire on the security team, sparking a gun duel in which two of the suspects were killed. Others managed to escape with injuries. Items recovered at the scene included an AK-47 rifle with breech number 4148, 33 rounds of live ammunition, and two mobile phones. The two suspects were taken to a hospital, where they were confirmed dead.

On the same day, operatives of the division also recovered an English-made double-barreled shotgun with breech number 03273286 and two live cartridges during another bush combing operation in Idumogun Community, Ukoni area of Esan South East LGA.

The Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, commended the operatives, hunters, and vigilante members for their bravery and synergy in tackling criminal activities. He assured residents that the command remains committed to flushing out criminals from the state and encouraged the public to support the Community Safety Partnership initiative as well as informal policing efforts to ensure a safer Edo.

The command urged residents to report emergencies via the following lines: 08037646272 or 08077773721.