The police command in Edo has rescued one Osazee Okungbowa, who was kidnapped on Friday night in Owanoba community.

The command’s public relations officer, CSP Moses Yamu, disclosed this on Sunday in Benin through a statement made available to journalists.

Mr Yamu said five armed men allegedly kidnapped the victim at about 9:45 p.m. in the presence of his family.

“However, on Feb. 8 at about 5:00 p.m, our operatives at Ologbo Division successfully rescued him.

“He has since been reunited with his family after receiving medical attention, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the suspects,” Mr Yamu said.

In another operation, he said the police arrested a 25-old suspected cultist for unlawful possession of a firearm and attempted murder during a burial procession at Old Road, Aduwawa, Benin City.

The command’s spokesperson explained that the suspect, a member of the Vikings cult group, was allegedly invited to the burial by a fellow cultist known as “Nice.”

“During the procession, the suspected cult member allegedly fired shots into the air using a locally made pistol loaded with four live cartridges.

“One of the shots hit a bystander, Nzube Cletus Mbum, causing injuries to his hand, leg, and back.

“After the shooting, the suspect attempted to escape but was swiftly apprehended with the help of members of the public.

“He is currently in police custody and will face charges accordingly,” Mr Yamu said.

Meanwhile, he said operatives of the Okuaihe Division recovered a stolen Toyota Yaris after a carjacking incident at Upper Mission Extension.

He said the vehicle, with registration number BEN 535 DR, was snatched at gunpoint on Feb. 6 at about 2:00 p.m.

“Following a distress call, our operatives pursued the car snatchers, who eventually abandoned the vehicle at Iguomon Community along Benin-Agbor Road.

“The car was recovered and returned to its rightful owner, while efforts to track down the suspects are ongoing,” Mr Yamu added.

The police public relations officer quoted the Commissioner of Police in the state, Betty Otimenyin, as commending the officers for their swift response, urging the residents to remain vigilant.

“We appreciate the good people of Edo State for their support. We urge the public to ‘see something, say something’ to ensure a safer Edo State,” he quoted Ms Otimenyin as saying.

The police boss reassured the citizens of the command’s commitment to tackling crime and maintaining law and order across the state.

(NAN)