by Edo Police on Benin-Lagos Route — All Abducted Passengers Freed

The Edo State Police Command has successfully secured the release of all thirteen passengers who were kidnapped from a commercial bus on May 13. The incident occurred at Ogua Community along the busy Benin-Lagos Road, where the vehicle, en route from Akwa Ibom State to Lagos, was intercepted by assailants. During the attack, a female passenger sustained a gunshot injury before the abductors whisked everyone away to an undisclosed location.

Following the report, the Command immediately initiated a comprehensive rescue mission, involving coordinated operations and extensive bush combing. This led to the initial rescue of five individuals, comprising two adults and three children, with operatives persistently tracking the kidnappers. Further efforts on May 10, supported by drone deployment, aerial surveillance, intelligence-driven policing, and sustained technological aid, saw officers engage the criminals in a gun battle, resulting in the successful liberation of two additional passengers.

In an official statement issued today, May 23, the Command's spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, confirmed that the remaining six abducted passengers have also been safely rescued and are unharmed. Reacting to the positive development, the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, lauded the courage and steadfastness of the operatives involved. He further assured residents of the Command's unwavering commitment, stating that intensive bush combing operations are still underway to ensure the apprehension of all those responsible for this crime.