The Police Command in Edo says it has rescued Reverend Father Philip Ekeli, who was kidnapped alongside Seminarian Peter Andrew in the state on March 3.
CSP Moses Yamu, the command’s Public Relations Officer announced this in a statement in Benin on Friday.
Yamu noted, however, that the seminarian tragically lost his life in captivity.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the duo were reportedly kidnapped at St. Peters Catholic Church, Iviukha in Etsako East Local Government Area of the state.
The police spokesperson asserted that security operatives and local vigilantes secured Fr. Ekeli’s release on March 13, at about 4:52 p.m. in Amughe Community.
“Bush-combing efforts are ongoing to recover the remains of the seminarian and apprehend the remaining members of the gang,” Yamu said.
He recalled that one suspect was neutralised and four others arrested on the day of the abduction.
“Security forces are continuing operations to track down the fleeing kidnappers,” he said.
The spokesperson said that the command condemns the killing of the seminarian and assures the public of its commitment to bringing all the perpetrators to justice.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies.