DSS Rescues Man Abducted Near Orlu Market, Two Suspects Killed

DSS Rescues Man Abducted Near Orlu Market, Two Suspects Killed
N15m Ransom Demanded by Kidnapper
Adibenma was subsequently taken into protective custody and later reunited with his family

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), working with other security agencies and local vigilantes, have rescued a 29-year-old man, Ibeabuchi Adibenma, who was abducted by suspected kidnappers in Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State.

Contents

EDITOR’S PICK
FURTHER READING

Eko Hot Blog reports that the victim was reportedly kidnapped around 7pm on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, near Afor-Ogidi Market in Isiala Amaifeke Community while returning from the International Market, Umuna, Orlu.

EDITOR’S PICK

In a statement issued by the DSS in Imo State on Friday, the assailants, who were reportedly armed and operating on two motorcycles, allegedly intercepted and double-crossed Adibenma’s vehicle before taking him to an undisclosed location.

Following the abduction, the kidnappers reportedly contacted his family and demanded N15 million as ransom for his release.

However, security operatives launched a coordinated operation in the early hours of Thursday, August 20, which led to the victim’s rescue at Ihioma Community, Orlu.

The DSS said two suspected members of the kidnapping syndicate were neutralised during the operation, while two high-calibre weapons and ammunition were recovered.

Adibenma was subsequently taken into protective custody and later reunited with his family.

Edo Student Freed After N2 Million Ransom Payment — Kidnapped

The agency said the operation demonstrated the growing collaboration among security agencies and local vigilante groups in Imo State to disrupt kidnapping networks and prevent the state from becoming a safe haven for violent criminals.

Security agencies have continued to intensify intelligence gathering, surveillance and joint operations across the state as efforts remain ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate who are still at large.

Residents were also urged to remain vigilant and provide credible information to security agencies to support efforts to prevent and combat kidnapping and other violent crimes.