Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers on Sunday, June 14, 2026, stormed the popular Vegetable Market off Airport Road in Benin City, Edo State, and abducted a female shopper after a dramatic struggle that saw her husband fight off the attackers and escape. The incident occurred near the former residence of ex-Foreign Affairs Minister Chief Tom Ikimi.
A viral video of the incident shows the assailants arriving in a red vehicle. They blocked a grey car, shot at its tyres, and attempted to drag the man driving it into their vehicle. The man fought back, managed to break free, and fled on foot. The gunmen pursued him but quickly turned back, grabbed the woman, and sped off.
An eyewitness at the market described the event as a "kidnapping," adding, "Today, for the first time, I experienced kidnapping in my life. It happened right at Airport Road, Vegetable Market. I saved the woman’s children today. We were both buying something in the same place. This is me, I have bruises. This is my legs." The woman’s children were reportedly with her when the attack happened, but it remains unclear if they were also at the scene or if the witness shielded them.
The Edo State Police Command confirmed the incident but insisted on describing it as an "abduction." The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Eno Ikoedem, stated, “I’m aware there was an abduction incident in that area earlier today and we are already investigating the matter. The woman, her children and husband went to Vegetable Market to buy some things after the close of service when they abducted her.”
When pressed on why she used the term 'abduction' instead of 'kidnapping', Ikoedem said, “It is abduction and not kidnapping. Or have you heard if the abductors have contacted the family for ransom? Or if you have any information I do not have, kindly send it to me.”
A radio alert message from the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) indicated that the suspects were reportedly wearing uniforms of the Corps. The message instructed all formations to stop and search red vehicles, arrest any ESSC personnel in unmarked vehicles, and take any unfamiliar individuals to the nearest police station.
As of Monday, June 15, the abducted woman has not been released, and no group has claimed responsibility. The police continue their investigation.
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