Army Rescues 14 Kidnapped Victims in Edo State

On July 30, 2026, gunmen suspected to be kidnappers abducted 14 victims along the Lagos–Benin Expressway in Ovia North East Local Government Area, Edo State. A statement from Kennedy Anyanwu, spokesperson for the 4 Brigade, detailed that troops on routine patrol received credible intelligence regarding the kidnapping.

Acting on this information, the troops pursued the kidnappers along their withdrawal route, which resulted in the criminals abandoning 11 victims who fled into the surrounding forest. On July 31, 2026, the troops conducted bush combing operations, successfully rescuing the remaining three victims.

All 14 rescued individuals were reported to be in stable condition and have been reunited with their families. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing kidnappers.

Anyanwu urged the public to provide timely information to security agencies, emphasizing its importance for operational success and security enhancement in Edo State.