A member of Edo State Security Corp (ESSC) member, Stanley Emenin, was caught in a crossfire during in a joint security operation to rescue a kidnapped farmer in Igbanke Community in Orhionmwon Local Government Area.
The tragic incident occurred on June 26, 2026 when operatives of Igbanke Division, in collaboration with operatives of ESSC, hunters, and members of the Community Safety Partnership, launched an aggressive bush-combing operation, following the abduction of a 60-year-old farmer, Tuesday Osemeke, by suspected kidnappers.
The spokesperson of the Nigeria police Command in Edo State, ASP Eno Ikoedem disclosed this late Wednesday June 1, 2026 in a statement, which also confirmed the rescue of the male hostage unharmed by the joint security team, following a gun duel with his abductors who fled with gunshot injuries.
During the operation, 43-year-old Emenin, sustained gunshot injuries while courageously confronting the criminals while the injured vigilante later succumbed to his injuries on Monday June 29, 2026 at the Hospital despite efforts to save his life, according to the police spokesperson.
In a condolence visit to family members of the slain vigilante, Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika described the late Emenin as a brave, selfless, and patriotic community protector whose courage and commitment to the safety of others will never be forgotten.
The police Commissioner in company of the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, ACP Innocent Nkeamatara, also expressed the heartfelt condolences of the officers and men of the police Command to the deceased’s family, friends, and the entire Igbanke Community
He also prayed God grants them the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss and reassured the family and members of the community that the sacrifice of the fallen vigilante would not be in vain, noting that the Command remains resolute in its determination to rid Edo State of criminal elements.
CP Agbonika assured that the Command has already reviewed aspects of its Community Safety Partnership operational framework with a view to strengthening collaboration, enhancing operational planning, improving intelligence sharing for impact.
While saluting the courage and uncommon gallantry displayed by the late Stanley Emenin, CP Monday Agbonika, urged members of all community-based security groups to remain steadfast in supporting lawful security operations, assuring them of the Command’s unwavering commitment to their welfare, safety, and continuous capacity building in the Force.
