The Edo state government has disclosed that two more victims of the attack at Tom Ikimi/Ekehen train station at Igueben have been rescued.
The state Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare who made this known during a news conference said the rescue operation was carried out in a joint operation by military, police, local vigilance members, and hunters on Thursday.
According to him, nine persons were still in the custody of the kidnappers.
He said, “Edo Government, in conjunction with the security agencies in the state were putting their heads together to ensure that the remaining nine captives regained their freedom unhurt and unconditionally.”
In the same vein, the Commissioner revealed that the policeman who lost his life during the rescue of the President of Igueben Area Customary Court in Igueben Local Government Area of Edo State, Her Honour Precious Aigbonoga, died of natural death.
Aigbonoga was rescued by a combined team of security agents, in collaboration with vigilance members and hunters in Edo state, he added.
“Mrs. Aigbonoga was rescued unhurt, but unfortunately, one of the policemen, DSP Michael Adams, involved in the rescue operation, died of natural causes, after the operation. He was not killed by bullets.
“Edo Deputy Governor, Comrade Philip Shaibu, and directors of all the security agencies have paid a condolence visit to the widow and children of the deceased policeman.”
Truth Live News had reported earlier that no fewer than 32 persons, including staff of the train station at Igueben were abducted by suspected herdsmen.
However, the government later confirmed that only 20 passengers were actually kidnapped, while seven had so far been rescued, leaving 13 persons in the hands of their captors.