Edo Security Corps Rescues Truck Driver and Motor Boy from Kidnappers, 7 Still Held

The Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) has successfully rescued a truck driver and his motor boy from kidnappers, authorities confirmed on Monday.

Deputy Commander of Operations, Richard Balogun, disclosed to reporters in Benin City that the victims, identified as 37-year-old Sani Muhammed and 25-year-old Nazifi Rabiu from Jigawa State, were abducted along the Benin–Okene road near an army checkpoint in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area. The kidnapping occurred at around 11 p.m. on March 30, 2026.

The victims were rescued on April 5, 2026, at approximately 6 p.m., in the Alimogiza Forest in the Anwain area of Etsako West by operatives of the ESSC.

Balogun revealed that the kidnappers, reportedly numbering about 10, had demanded a ransom of ₦60 million from the victims’ families before the rescue operation. He also alleged that one of the victims had been killed prior to the intervention.

Despite the successful rescue, authorities confirmed that seven other victims remain in the hands of the kidnappers. Security operatives continue to monitor the situation and are working to secure their release.

The ESSC’s swift action highlights ongoing efforts to curb the rising threat of kidnapping and protect commuters and residents along vulnerable routes in Edo State.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to security agencies immediately.