Benin City- The Commander of Edo State Security Corps, Friday Ibadin, a retired Commissioner of Police has commended the joint collaboration of security agencies in the State which led to the rescue of the kidnapped Reverend Father, Philip Ekeli.

Ibadin said the combined team of security operatives intensified the search and rescue operation as they embarked on serious bush combing which led to the rescue of the victim on the 13th March 2025 in Amughe Community after 10 days in captivity.

According to him, the kidnappers had no choice but to bow to the superior firing power of operatives men, adding that Rev. Fr. Philip Ekeli was not hurt during the rescue operation but later succumbed to the inhuman treatment meted on him by the kidnappers.

He said the reverend father and Seminarian Peter Andrew were kidnapped on the 3rd March 2025 at the St. Peter’s Catholic Church Iviukha, Etsako East LGA.

Om his part, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Moses Joel Yamu said efforts to arrest other fleeing suspects are in l top gear.

He said efforts have been intensified to ensure more comprehensive bush combing with a view to recovering the remains of the Seminarian, who regrettably lost his life in the process of trying to arrest the remaining gang of the kidnappers.

Recall that one of the suspects was neutralised and four others arrested on the day of the kidnap.