The Edo State Police Command has announced the rescue of the abducted Customary Court President, Mrs. Precious Aigbonoga.
The development was made known by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Chidi Nwabuzor, on Thursday.
The spokesperson also told newsmen that the Command lost a police officer during the rescue mission.
He added that the rescue operation was a joint effort of the military and police team at a place called Scorpion Hill inside the forest where the victim was held.
A source close to the family confirmed that Aigbonoga was at an undisclosed hospital receiving treatment for gunshot injuries.
The source said, “She has reunited with her family. She was shot by the kidnappers.”
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Recall that the Customary Court President was abducted by gunmen on her way to Igueben Local Government Area of the state, where she serves as President, Igueben Area Customary Court on Monday.
Reacting to the rescue, the Executive Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association, Benin Branch, led by Chief Nosa Edo-Osagie, thanked God and those who stood by the family, including the NBA as well as the security agencies who made the release possible.
Also, a statement signed by the Publicity Secretary, Festus Usiobaifo, stated, ”A source told the chairman and his team (Dream Team) that his honour was rescued unhurt in the early hours of today, 12th day of January, 2023.
”It was gathered that in the process of rescuing the victim, there was an exchange of heavy gunfire between the police and the bandits which led to one of the gallant police officers paying the ultimate price.”
Usiobaifo said the chairman appreciated the police and also commended them for their prompt intervention in the rescue.
The chairman also commiserated with the state Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Dankwara, on the loss of the officer.
He said that the chairman and his team appreciated Nigerians, especially members of the Benin Bar, for standing by Aigbonoga’s family during her time in captivity.