Joint Security Force Rescues Abducted 70-Year-Old Farmer in Edo State

Security forces in Edo State rescue Pa Jonah Owobu from a forest hideout in Uromi after kidnappers demanded 30 million Naira ransom. Suspects remain at large.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 25, 2026, 7:59 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Daily Post Nigeria

Mobilization of Joint Rescue Operation

Security operatives in Edo State have successfully liberated 70-year-old Pa Jonah Owobu from a kidnappers' enclave in Uromi. The rescue operation was initiated after the victim’s wife reported his disappearance on April 21, noting that he had failed to return from his farm the previous day. Following the report, the family was contacted by unidentified individuals who placed a 30 million Naira ransom on his life. In response, the Divisional Police Officer in Amedokhian coordinated a multi-agency team including police personnel, military operatives, local hunters, and the Edo State Security Corps to penetrate the surrounding forests.

Tactical Tracking and Discovery of Evidence

The rescue mission relied on forensic and local tracking methods to locate the victim. During a meticulous search of the forest paths, the joint team discovered Pa Owobu’s abandoned motorcycle alongside several of his personal belongings. This discovery provided the necessary intelligence for the operatives to narrow their search and move deeper into the thickets where the kidnappers were believed to be hiding. According to police spokesperson Eno Ikoedem, the recovery of these items was instrumental in guiding the team toward the eventual hideout.

Suspects Flee as Operatives Close In

Upon approaching the suspected hideout, the security team encountered the kidnappers. On sighting the advancing tactical units, the suspects opted to abandon their captive and fled into the dense bush to evade arrest. This allowed the operatives to secure Pa Owobu without a firefight, ensuring he remained physically unharmed during the transition. The Edo State Police Command confirmed that the victim has since been reunited with his family members following a medical assessment.