Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Edo State have rescued a 15-year-old girl who was abducted in Esan South-East Local Government Area and arrested suspects linked to the crime, following a swift investigation by security personnel.
The victim, identified as Miss Glory Odigie, was reportedly kidnapped on June 19, 2026, in Oghu Community, Ewohimi, after leaving her home to purchase a phone charging cord. Her disappearance triggered anxiety among family members, who launched a search before reporting the matter to security authorities.
According to a statement issued by the spokesperson of the Edo State Command of the NSCDC, Efosa Ogbebor, the victim’s elder brother, Mr. Odion Odigie, had reported to the command that his younger sister left home on an errand but failed to return, raising fears that she might have been abducted.
Preliminary investigations later confirmed the family’s fears when suspected kidnappers established contact and demanded a ransom of N800,000 for the teenager’s release. The suspects reportedly warned the family against involving security agencies, threatening consequences if their instructions were ignored.
Despite the threats, security operatives immediately commenced investigations and intelligence-gathering efforts aimed at locating the victim and apprehending those responsible for the crime. The operation eventually led officers to Oghu Community in Ewohimi, where the victim was rescued safely.
The NSCDC spokesperson disclosed that two suspects identified as Freedom Saturday, aged 16, and Thankgod Oriabor, 21, were arrested during the operation. He noted that the rescue was carried out without harm to the victim, bringing relief to her family and members of the community.
According to the command, the suspects are currently in custody while investigations continue to determine whether other individuals were involved in the abduction. Authorities are also working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and identify any possible criminal network connected to the case.
The successful rescue operation has been commended by residents and community leaders, who described the swift intervention of the NSCDC as timely and crucial. Many residents expressed concern over the increasing cases of kidnapping and insecurity affecting communities across the country and called for intensified security measures to protect vulnerable citizens, especially women and children.
Kidnapping for ransom has become a growing concern in several parts of Nigeria, with criminal gangs increasingly targeting individuals for financial gain. Security agencies have repeatedly urged citizens to promptly report suspicious activities and cooperate with law enforcement authorities to facilitate timely intervention and rescue operations.
The NSCDC reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property and assured residents of Edo State that efforts would continue to combat criminal activities through intelligence-led operations and collaboration with other security agencies.
Meanwhile, authorities have appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and provide useful information that could aid ongoing investigations and help prevent future incidents.
The rescue of the teenager has once again underscored the importance of swift reporting and coordinated security responses in tackling kidnapping and ensuring the safety of citizens across the country.
