Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have rescued seven individuals kidnapped while farming in Ikeken Forest, Ewohimi. The successful operation involved police, army, and vigilantes, leading to the abductors fleeing without harm to the victims. All rescued persons have been reunited with their families.
On November 1, 2025, Enoch Omozokpia reported to police that his father, 65-year-old William Omozokpia, and six others were abducted by armed suspects while farming in Ikeken Forest, Ewohimi, in Esan South-East Local Government Area of Edo State.
Acting on the report, the Divisional Police Officer of Ewohimi led a joint team comprising Edo State Police Command operatives, Nigerian Army personnel, and local vigilante groups. They conducted a coordinated operation, storming the forest and engaging in intense bush combing. This effort forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives and flee into the bush.
All seven victims were rescued unharmed. The individuals include William Akhabue, Innocent Ebarekor, Rachel Ebarekor, Efuah Ebarekor, Winner Ebarekor, William Omozokpia, and Lucky Igiese, popularly known as Bulala. They have since been reunited with their families.
The Edo State Police Command's deputy Public Relations Officer, Emem Ikoedem, disclosed the details in a statement on November 8, 2025. She quoted the command's statement: “The Edo State Police Command has recorded another major breakthrough in its relentless onslaught against kidnapping and violent crimes in the State, as operatives of the Command have successfully rescued seven kidnapped victims in Ewohimi, Esan South-East Local Government Area of Edo State.”
Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika commended the gallantry and professionalism of the participating teams. Ikoedem reaffirmed the command's commitment to residents' safety and ongoing efforts to apprehend the fleeing suspects. She urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.