How we rescued 13 kidnapped victims in Ekiti – Rescue Team

Facts have emerged on how 13 kidnapped victims were rescued in Ekiti.

The incident occurred over the weekend at Obbo-Ayegunle in Ekiti Local Government Area, where the victims, travelling from Kogi State, were ambushed by gunmen. Following the kidnapping, the abductors contacted the families of the victims, demanding a ransom of N100 million for their release.

However, according to the rescue team, the effort was spearheaded by the chairman of Oke-Ero Local Government, Hon. James Fidipe, in collaboration with the police, vigilantes, and local hunters.

Traditional rulers also played a crucial role in supporting the efforts. The collaborative approach involved tracing the abductors to an uncompleted building located at Ero Omola Resort in Oke-Ero in the state. The meticulous search led to the successful rescue of all 13 victims without any ransom payment.

The victims were promptly taken to a cottage hospital for medical examinations. They were thereafter reunited with their families in time for the festive period.

The rescue underscores the effectiveness of community-driven interventions in addressing kidnapping cases in the state.

The rescue operation demonstrated the critical role of local hunters and vigilante groups in providing support to law enforcement agencies. Their intimate knowledge of the terrain and commitment to protecting their communities have proven invaluable in tackling criminal activities. This synergy between formal and informal security structures has shown promise in curbing kidnapping in the region.

The team said the leadership of Oke-Ero Local Government and other affected areas remain committed to working closely with the government and stakeholders to address the root causes of insecurity.

“Strengthening community vigilance and fostering proactive measures will be essential in ensuring a sustainable solution to kidnapping and other criminal activities in the area”, the team said.

Hon. James Fidipe, who was part of the rescue efforts, confirmed the incident and said, “Thirteen victims were involved including five from my council. After their kidnapping in Ekiti Local Government, we swung into action with the assistance of the police, vigilantes and traditional rulers.

Although they demanded ransom, the good thing is that we didn’t pay a dime. They were later traced to an uncompleted building at Ero Omola Resort in Oke-Ero. They were taken to cottage hospital for checks and later reunited with their families for the festive period.”