Operatives of the Edo State Security Corps, popularly known as vigilantes, in collaboration with local hunters, have successfully rescued nine kidnapped victims in a daring bush-combing operation in Jattu, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
The rescue followed the abduction of the victims by suspected gunmen who forced them into the nearby bush.
According to reports, the victims included seven members of a church group kidnapped near Jattu Grammar School (behind the power line) and one couple taken while returning from their farm.
A gun battle erupted between the vigilantes and the kidnappers during the operation. The assailants eventually abandoned the victims and fled into the bush, allowing the security team to secure their safe release without any ransom payment.
The rescued individuals were reported to be unhurt and have since been reunited with their families.
The Corps Deputy Commander, Richard Balogin, confirmed the operation, stating: “The gunmen kidnapped nine persons into the bush. Our operatives entered the bush and rescued them unhurt and without paying ransom.”
He added that the team recovered two locally made rifles from the scene and continues to comb the area in pursuit of the fleeing suspects to bring them to justice.
This latest rescue highlights the critical role of community-based vigilante groups in combating the persistent threat of kidnapping in Edo State, amid ongoing concerns over insecurity in rural and forested areas.
The Edo State Security Corps reiterated its commitment to protecting residents and urged the public to provide timely information on suspicious activities to aid ongoing efforts against criminal elements.
