Edo Police Rescue 13 Kidnapping Victims Along Benin-Lagos Highway

The Edo State Police Command has successfully rescued 13 passengers abducted by suspected kidnappers along the Benin-Lagos Expressway. The operation combined aerial surveillance, drone monitoring and ground-based bush-clearing tactics.

The victims were captured on May 9 in Ogua community when armed assailants attacked a commercial bus belonging to Young Shall Grow Motors, traveling from Akwa Ibom to Lagos. A passenger suffered gunshot wounds during the assault.

ASP Eno Ikoedem, spokesperson for the command, explained that the police immediately launched intelligence operations. Initial efforts rescued five passengers, including two adults and three children, while ongoing operations tracked down the kidnappers.

On May 10, police engaged in a firefight with the kidnappers, rescuing two more passengers. The remaining six victims were later rescued unharmed through continued tactical operations, including drones and aerial reconnaissance.

The state Police Commissioner, Monday Agbonika, commended the officers for their bravery and assured the public that efforts to arrest criminals continue.

“The command is engaged in intense combing operations to bring the culprits to justice,” Agbonika said, reiterating the police’s commitment to public safety along the expressway.