Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the death of a young man identified as Christopher who was shot by suspected kidnappers in Auchi near Igbira camp in Etsako West Local Government Area of the state just as inhabitants raised concern on incessant kidnapping activities in the area.
His partner, a female was taken into the bush and the family is yet to establish contact with her.
The incident was said to have happened in the Igbira Camp area, near a fertiliser depot and close to a military checkpoint in the town on April 20.
An eye witness said that the deceased and his partner were going home together on a motorcycle when they were intercepted by armed assailants believed to be kidnappers.
During the incident, the male victim reportedly resisted the assailants and engaged them in a struggle in an attempt to prevent the abduction. He was killed in the process.
The gunmen subsequently fled the scene with the woman, whose identity has not yet been confirmed.
The incident has sparked concern among residents, particularly due to its proximity to a military checkpoint, raising questions about security in the area.
Residents expressed frustration over what they described as a worsening security situation across the Auchi axis, noting that kidnapping incidents have reportedly persisted for over six months without significant arrests.
One of the residents said, “The trend is becoming increasingly alarming, with concerns that such attacks are occurring with little deterrence even in areas close to security formations.
“This has intensified calls for stronger security measures and improved intelligence-led operations to address the situation.
“Community members are urging greater collaboration between security agencies and residents, emphasizing the need for vigilance and timely reporting of suspicious activities.
Speaking on the phone on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem said eye witnesses said the suspected kidnappers were in military uniform.
Her words, “I am not saying they are soldiers but they said the people wore army camouflage. The young man was shot, he was later rushed to a health facility but later confirmed dead. Efforts are on top gear to apprehend them and rescue the lady.”
