The Edo State Police Command has announced the rescue of all passengers abducted during a kidnapping incident along the Benin–Lagos Road earlier this month.
In a statement issued by Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the Command provided an update on the incident which occurred on May 9, 2026, at Ogua Community along the Benin–Lagos Road. Armed kidnappers had reportedly attacked a commercial bus belonging to Young Shall Grow Motors, conveying 13 passengers from Akwa Ibom State to Lagos.
During the attack, the assailants abducted several passengers, while a female passenger sustained a gunshot injury.
According to the police spokesperson, the Command swiftly launched coordinated rescue and bush-combing operations following the attack.
“Following the incident, the Command immediately launched coordinated rescue and bush combing operations, rescuing five passengers, comprising two adults and three children, and has remained on the trail of the kidnappers,” Ikoedem stated.
The police further disclosed that on May 10, operatives intensified efforts through the deployment of drones, aerial surveillance, intelligence-led policing and technological support, leading to another breakthrough.
“Through the deployment of drones, aerial surveillance, intelligence-driven policing, and sustained technological support, operatives of the Command engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel and successfully rescued two additional passengers,” the statement added.
The Command said the remaining six abducted passengers have now been rescued unharmed, bringing the total number of rescued victims to 13.
The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, commended officers involved in the operation for their determination and resilience.
“He commends the courage and resilience of the operatives involved in the operation and reassures residents that the Command is not relenting in its efforts as intensive bush combing operations are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators of this crime,” the statement said.
