Policeman killed in gun duel as security operatives rescue kidnapped Edo customary court judge

The kidnapped President of Igueben Area Customary Court, Mrs Precious Aigbonoga, has been rescued by a joint team of Military and Police operatives.

Recall that Mrs. Aigbonoga was abducted on Monday January 9, around Ugoneki axis on her way to Igueben Local Government Area of Edo State for a court sitting. 

Confirming the development, spokesman of the Edo State Police Command, SP Chidi Nwabuzor, said the victim was rescued from the kidnappers’ den called “Scorpion Hill inside the forest” by a joint military-police team, adding that a policeman lost his life in the process.

A family source who also confirmed the report to Nigerian Tribune, said Aigbonoga was rescued in the early hours of Thursday, January 12.

The source also said to that the judge sustained gunshot wound during the gun duel between security operatives and the kidnappers. 

“She was rescued by the military but was shot by the kidnappers and is receiving treatment in the hospital,” the source added. 

The Executive Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin City Branch, led by Chief Nosa Francis Edo-Osagie, confirmed the rescue in a statement issued by the Publicity Secretary of the Association, Festus Osagie Usiobaifo Esq on Thursday evening, January 12.

“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, 2022, following an attack launched against the kidnappers by Police Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad attached to Police Headquarters, Benin City,” the statement read. 

“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.

“The Chairman while appreciating the Police for its prompt intervention in the rescue of the victim, also commiserates with the Edo State Commissioner of Police, C.P. Mohammed Adamu Dankwara on the loss of his gallant officer. The Chairman also prays to God Almighty to grant the family of the slain officer the fortitude to bear the loss.

“On a final note, the Chairman and his team appreciate Nigerians especially members of the Benin Bar for standing by the family of Mrs Precious Aigbonoga during her time in captivity,” the statement said.