Operatives of the Edo State Security Corps, also known as vigilantes, in collaboration with local hunters, have rescued nine kidnapped victims in Jattu, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.

Seven of the victims were reportedly abducted at gunpoint while returning from church near Jattu Grammar School, behind the power line, while the other two, a couple, were kidnapped on their way from their farm.

Sources said that during the attack, the pastor escaped, but seven of his members were taken into the bush.

The kidnappers later demanded a ransom for the release of the victims.

Following the abduction, the vigilantes mobilised for a bush combing operation to locate the victims.

Upon encountering the kidnappers, a gun battle ensued, forcing the abductors to abandon the victims and flee.

The Corps Deputy Commander, Richard Balogin, confirmed the operation, saying the corps acted in line with its mandate to work alongside other security agencies.

“The gunmen kidnapped nine persons into the bush. Our operatives entered the bush and rescued them unhurt and without paying ransom,” he said.

Two locally made rifles were recovered during the operation, while the suspects escaped.

He added that the operatives were still combing the area to apprehend the perpetrators, and the rescued victims have been reunited with their families. (Daily Trust)