The Edo State Police Command has pledged to secure the release of three seminarians abducted from the Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary, Ivianokpodi-Agenebode, during a July 11 attack that left a Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps officer dead.
Police spokesperson, CSP Moses Joel Yamu, said in a statement on Sunday that Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, has been personally leading the rescue efforts. He noted that tactical teams, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, were deployed immediately after the incident.
Yamu added that a Tactical Division has been established in Ivieukwa community to strengthen operations and improve intelligence gathering. He confirmed that the command is also working with security experts and sister agencies, deploying “advanced technical intelligence” to ensure the seminarians’ safe return.
On the circulation of a viral video showing the abducted boys, Yamu appealed for calm, assuring the public that the police are “working around the clock” on the case.
“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,” the statement read.
He expressed sympathy to the affected families and commended their patience, while urging residents to support ongoing security efforts. “As progress is made, the Command will continue to provide updates, without jeopardising the safety of the boys,” Yamu said.
