- Safiu Kehinde
The Edo State Police Command has assured families of the three abducted students of the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary Ivianokpodi-Agenebode of their release as it reiterated ongoing rescue mission for the students.
This is coming under the heels of a recent video of the abducted three male students forced by their abductors to hold a severed human skull.
As contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Command’s spokesperson, CSP Moses Yamu, the students were abducted on the 11th of July following gunmen attack on the school.
In the wake of the attack which left one officer of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) dead, the Police Commissioner, Monday Agbonika, had reportedly led the rescue operation with the deployment of tactical teams and anti-kidnapping units of the Command.
Yamu further disclosed the Police Commissioner’s establishment of a tactical division in Ivieukwa community where the school is located.
The spokesperson assured the Catholic Diocese of Auchi and parents of the victims of the Command’s effort in esnuring the safe return of the students.
The statement read in part; “The Edo State Police Command wishes to refer to the unfortunate incident of 11th July 2025, at Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary Ivianokpodi-Agenebode, where armed men attacked the institution, resulting in the tragic death of an NSCDC personnel and the abduction of three seminarians.
“Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, has personally been leading operations towards their rescue. Consequently, operatives of Tactical Teams, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, were immediately deployed to ensure the safe rescue of the victims.
“In furtherance of these efforts, a Tactical Division has also been established in Ivieukwa Community to strengthen security and technical intelligence in the area.
“The Command has also continued to work closely with experts and sister agencies to deploy advanced technical intelligence and coordinated operations to secure the safe return of the abducted seminarians.
“We are aware of the recent viral video involving the boys, and we wish to assure the Catholic Diocese of Auchi, parents, guardians, and the general public that the Edo State Police Command is leaving no stone unturned in its resolve to bring the seminarians back safely.
“We deeply sympathize with the families during this difficult time and commend their patience and cooperation with security agencies.
“The Edo State Police Command remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting lives and property and hereby appeals to members of the public to remain calm and supportive of ongoing efforts for the safe return of the boys. As progress is made, the Command will continue to provide updates, without jeopardising their safety, please.”