Gunmen abduct family of nine in Edo, demand N260m

Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have abducted nine family members in Edo, demanding N260 million in ransom.
 
The victims included a nursing mother, six children, a baby, and her two younger sisters.  
 
They were reportedly abducted at about 5:00 p.m. at Eko-Abeku-Iyowa Road, within the Evboneka Community, along the Benin-Akure Road, while returning from school, on Monday, February 2, 2026.
 
The Head of the family, Festus Bamidele, said the abductors released the nursing mother and her baby after a heavy rainfall.
 
He said the family learnt about the incident when the nursing mother and the baby got home. He further disclosed that three other victims of pre-kg classes were later rescued by vigilante and police operatives at Evboneka Community.
 
Bamidele explained that four others, who are between the ages of 11 and 26, are still being held captive by the kidnappers.
 
He added that among those still being held are his children, junior sister, and a sister-in-law.
 
He said the kidnappers have contacted the family and demanded the N260 million ransom.
 
Contacted, the State Police Command spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, who confirmed the incident, said operatives of Ekiadolor Division engaged the abductors in a gun duel and successfully rescued five of the victims unhurt, while four others were taken away.
 
“The command, in collaboration with hunters and vigilantes, has launched an intensive bush combing exercise for the kidnappers, while efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining victims,” she said.