A 43-year-old operative of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), Stanley Emeni, has died from gunshot wounds sustained during a joint rescue operation against suspected kidnappers in Igbanke, Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State.
Emeni was shot on June 26, 2026, when operatives of the Igbanke Police Division, working alongside ESSC personnel, hunters and members of the Community Safety Partnership, engaged the suspected kidnappers in a gun battle while attempting to rescue an abducted farmer, Tuesday Osemeke.
Although Osemeke was rescued unharmed, Emeni sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange of fire and later died at the hospital.
Confirming the incident on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said the security personnel succumbed to the injuries despite efforts to save his life.
Following his death, the Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Monday Agbonika, accompanied by ACP Innocent Nkeamatara, visited Emeni’s family in Idumodu Community, Igbanke, where he described the deceased as “a brave, selfless and patriotic community protector whose courage and commitment to the safety of others will never be forgotten.”
Agbonika assured the family that Emeni’s sacrifice would not be in vain, adding that “the memory of the late Stanley Emeni remains a shining example of patriotism and selfless service that will continue to inspire all those committed to protecting lives and property.”
The commissioner also disclosed that the command had reviewed its Community Safety Partnership framework to strengthen collaboration, improve intelligence sharing and introduce additional safety measures aimed at reducing casualties among security personnel and volunteers during future joint operations.