In a tragic late-night home invasion, suspected kidnappers have killed a man and abducted his teenage twin children in Edo State. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and highlighted ongoing security challenges.
A Deadly Ruse in Kalabar Quarters
The attack occurred on December 11 at the family residence in Kalabar Quarters, Afokpella, located within the Etsako East Local Government Area. According to accounts from local residents, the armed assailants forcibly entered the home of Ilabeshi Okhale. In a calculated move to lure him outside, the gunmen switched off his power generator.
When Okhale came out to investigate the sudden silence, the attackers ambushed him. They assaulted him with machetes, inflicting severe injuries. The gunmen then seized his twin children, 16-year-old Emmanuel and Emmanuella, and fled with them into a nearby bush. The wounded father was left behind.
N100 Million Ransom Demand and Tragic Loss
Following the abduction, the kidnappers contacted the grieving family. They demanded a staggering ransom of 100 million Naira. This exorbitant demand compounded the family's immense distress, coming just as they were coping with the violent attack on their breadwinner.
A resident, who wished to remain anonymous, detailed the sequence of events: "The kidnappers came late at night. They put out the deceased's generator to lure him out. As soon as he came out, they used the machete on him, and he sustained several cuts, which eventually led to his death. The gunmen demanded an N100m ransom from the family, which added to the loss of their breadwinner."
Ilabeshi Okhale was rushed to Ajie Hospital for emergency treatment but was confirmed dead by medical personnel. His body was subsequently deposited at the Santa Maria Morgue in Jattu for an autopsy.
Swift Security Response Leads to Rescue
The Edo State Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer, SP Eno Ikoedem, confirmed the incident and provided an update on a successful rescue operation. Upon receiving the report, police officers stormed the scene and initiated a comprehensive search.
A combined security team comprising personnel from the police, army, Edo State Security Council (ESSC), local hunters, and vigilante groups conducted extensive combing of the surrounding bushland. Their concerted efforts led to the safe rescue of the abducted twins.
"I can tell you that the abducted twins have been rescued unhurt by the police and personnel of other sister agencies," stated SP Ikoedem. The 16-year-olds were reunited with their family, providing a glimmer of relief amidst the tragedy.
The PPRO added that investigations are ongoing to track down and apprehend the perpetrators responsible for the murder and kidnapping. The community of Afokpella remains on edge as authorities work to restore a sense of safety and bring the culprits to justice.
