There is growing fear in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State after gunmen reportedly abducted five people, including a police officer. The incidents have increased anxiety in the area, where residents say kidnappings have become frequent in recent weeks.

Reports indicate that two victims were taken from a primary health centre in Makeke village. A female secondary school student and a man who had taken his child to the facility were allegedly seized by the attackers. In a separate incident in Auchi, a police inspector was kidnapped at his residence alongside his wife and daughter. His wife was later released, reportedly to help arrange ransom for the release of her family members.

Community sources revealed that the kidnappers have contacted some of the victims’ families and demanded a large ransom. The situation has reportedly forced local authorities and traditional leaders to impose a nightly curfew from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. in an effort to reduce further attacks and improve security.

The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the incidents and assured residents that investigations are ongoing. Community leaders have called for stronger security measures to protect lives and property, as residents continue to express concern over the rising wave of abductions in the area.