The Edo State Police Command, in collaboration with local vigilantes and hunters, has killed a suspected kidnapper and rescued a 12-year-old victim from his captivity.

The command’s spokesperson, Moses Yamu, said in a statement on Monday that security officers arrested the suspect while receiving ransom from the victim’s relatives.

Mr Yamu said the joint team had trailed the relative to Agenebode, where the ransom was to be delivered, but they were engaged in a gun duel.

Mr Yamu said, “On 14/10/2025, following the kidnapping of one Blessing Anani (f), 12 years, in the Ayogwiri Community, Uzairue, in Etsako West, operatives of Jattu Division, in collaboration with local vigilantes and hunters, and led by the divisional police officer (DPO), trailed a family member, one Sunday Idornigie (M), who was forced to deliver ransom to kidnappers around the Agenebode axis.

“Upon arrival, the operatives observed one of the suspects viciously attacking the family member who went to deliver the ransom with a machete. As officers advanced to rescue him, the gang opened fire. The operatives responded with superior firepower, dislodging the kidnappers.”

Mr Yamu said the security operatives rescued Miss Anani unhurt, while her relatives sustained injuries during the encounter.

“The victim, Blessing Anani, was rescued unhurt, while Sunday Idornigie, who sustained machete injuries, was evacuated for medical care. One suspect sustained fatal gunshot injuries during the exchange and was rushed to Favor Hospital, Afashio, where he was confirmed dead by the doctor on duty. His remains have been deposited in the mortuary,” Mr Yamu said.

According to the police spokesperson, other members of the gang fled into the bush with suspected gunshot wounds, while a blood-stained machete was recovered as the investigation continues to track down the fleeing suspects.