By Parrot Newspaper 
Edo Police Launch Manhunt for Suspected Herdsmen After Abduction of Catholic Priest and Seminarian
By Parrot Newspaper
Benin City, Nigeria – The Edo State Police Command has intensified efforts to rescue Rev. Father Philip Ekeli and Seminarian Peter Andrew, who were abducted by suspected herdsmen at St. Peter Catholic Church, Ivukwa community, Etsako East Local Government Area.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the command’s spokesperson, CSP Moses Yamu, confirmed that the armed attack occurred at approximately 11:30 p.m. on Monday. He said security operatives, including local vigilantes and hunters under Operation Rescue, swiftly responded to the incident, leading to a gunfight with the kidnappers.
During the confrontation, one of the suspected abductors was neutralized. His body has since been deposited at the General Hospital, Agenebode. Four additional suspects were also apprehended, though their names have not been disclosed.
Among the items recovered from the deceased suspect were a Tecno button phone with two SIM cards, a power bank, a dagger jacket, a bag containing biscuits and Nescafé beverage, and a sum of N168,850.
To bolster rescue operations, Commissioner of Police Betty Otimenyin has deployed reinforcements from the anti-kidnapping unit and the Police Mobile Force, working in collaboration with the military. Authorities have assured the public that efforts are ongoing to ensure the safe release of the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Meanwhile, residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police to aid the ongoing operation.
The abduction of religious leaders has raised fresh concerns over insecurity in Edo State and the wider region. Stakeholders are calling for a more robust approach to tackling kidnapping and ensuring the safety of communities.