The Edo State Police Command has officially confirmed the kidnapping of two brothers in the Auchi area of the state, an incident that has sparked fear within the local community.
Details of the Auchi Kidnapping Incident
The victims have been identified as Ibrahim Abu and his brother, Tahir Abu. According to reports received by the authorities, the abduction took place on the evening of January 2, 2026. The brothers were targeted as Ibrahim, a medical doctor undergoing his housemanship at the Edo State Teaching Hospital in Auchi, was attempting to enter his residence after work.
A source close to the family provided chilling details, stating the event unfolded right at Ibrahim's gate on City Pride Road, Igbira Camp, Auchi, within the Utsogun Heritage Zone. The source expressed profound distress, highlighting the irony of a young healthcare professional dedicated to serving others falling victim to such violence. They issued a passionate appeal to security agencies and the Edo State Government to secure the brothers' safe and unconditional release.
Police Response and Search Operation
In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Edo State Command, Eno Ikoedem, provided a timeline of the police action. She stated that the command was alerted about the kidnapping at approximately 8:30 p.m. on January 2, 2026.
"Upon receipt of a distress call reporting the kidnapping of two brothers, Abu Ibrahim Babatunde and Abu Tahir, along City Pride Road, Igbira Camp, Auchi, the Divisional Police Officer, Auchi Division, was immediately deployed to the scene," Ikoedem said.
She further explained that a coordinated search and rescue mission was swiftly mobilized. This operation involves not only police operatives but also local vigilantes, forest guards, and community safety partnership volunteers. Their combined knowledge of the local terrain is considered crucial for the search efforts in the surrounding forests.
Ongoing Efforts and Public Assurance
The police spokesperson assured the public and the victims' family that the operation is aggressive and continuous. "Aggressive search and rescue operations within the forest have been ongoing since last night, and the command assures the family and the general public that no stone will be left unturned to ensure the safe rescue of the victims," Ikoedem emphasized.
She concluded by promising that updates would be provided as the situation develops. The incident has plunged the Iyetse Clan community into a state of panic, underscoring the persistent challenges of insecurity in the region.
