The Chief Imam of Uromi, Sheikh Moritada Obhakhoboh, who was abducted last week in Edo State, has regained his freedom following a coordinated rescue effort by the Edo State Police Command and local vigilante groups.
The Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Yamu, confirmed the cleric’s release in a statement issued Monday night. He said the Imam was freed without harm after days of intense operational pressure on the abductors.
Sheikh Obhakhoboh was kidnapped on July 7 in the Angle 80 area of Uromi, a town located in Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State. The incident sparked widespread concern among residents and the Muslim community, prompting swift action from law enforcement authorities.
According to the police spokesperson, the abduction was formally reported to the Uromi Divisional Headquarters on July 8. In response, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, immediately deployed tactical units to begin a manhunt for the perpetrators. These units worked closely with local vigilante operatives to track the kidnappers.
Yamu stated that the pressure exerted by the security teams on the kidnappers’ hideouts and movements eventually forced them to release their hostage.
“The Chief Imam was released unhurt and has since been reunited with his family,” he said. “We are pleased to report that he is in good health and high spirits.”
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CP Agbonika commended the joint team of police officers and vigilante members for their dedication and prompt response. He assured the public that investigations are ongoing to ensure the criminals responsible are brought to justice.
“No stone will be left unturned in identifying and apprehending those behind the kidnapping,” the commissioner was quoted as saying.
He also urged residents of Edo State to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly. “Community support is critical in the fight against crime. We encourage the public to provide timely and credible information to aid ongoing operations,” he added.
The release of the Chief Imam has brought relief to many in the Uromi community, who had been anxiously awaiting news of his safety. Religious leaders and community members have praised the efforts of the security agencies and called for continued efforts to address rising security threats in the region.
The incident marks another example of the growing collaboration between formal security forces and grassroots vigilante groups in tackling insecurity, especially in rural and semi-urban parts of the country.
As of the time of filing this report, no arrests have been made, but police sources say the identities of the suspects are known and that operations are continuing in the area to track them down.
NAN
