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 bush-combing tactics.
The victims were taken on May 9 at Ogua Community when armed assailants attacked a commercial bus belonging to Young Shall Grow Motors, traveling from Akwa Ibom to Lagos One female passenger sustained gunshot injuries during the assault.
ASP Eno Ikoedem, the command’s spokesperson, explained that the police immediately launched intelligence-driven operations. Initial efforts rescued five passengers, including two adults and three children, while ongoing operations tracked the kidnappers.
On May 10, the police engaged the kidnappers in a gunfight, rescuing two more passengers. The remaining six victims were later rescued unharmed through continued tactical operations, including drones and aerial reconnaissance.
The state Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, commended the operatives for their bravery and assured the public that efforts to apprehend the criminals remain ongoing.
“The command is committed to intensive bush-combing operations to bring the perpetrators to justice,” Agbonika said, reaffirming the police’s dedication to public safety along the expressway.
