The Edo State Police Command has announced the successful rescue of all passengers abducted during a kidnapping attack on a commercial bus along the Benin–Lagos Road earlier this month.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the command confirmed that the remaining six victims kidnapped during the May 9 attack at Ogua Community had been rescued unhurt following sustained security operations across the area.
The victims were passengers aboard a Young Shall Grow Motors bus travelling from Akwa Ibom State to Lagos when armed kidnappers ambushed the vehicle along the highway. During the attack, a female passenger was reportedly shot by the assailants before the gunmen whisked away several occupants into nearby bushes.
Police authorities said operatives immediately launched coordinated rescue efforts and intensive bush-combing operations after the incident.
According to the command, the initial operation led to the rescue of five passengers, including two adults and three children, while security teams continued tracking the kidnappers through intelligence gathering and tactical surveillance.
The police further disclosed that on May 10, operatives deployed drones, aerial surveillance technology and intelligence-driven tactics to engage the kidnappers in a gun duel, resulting in the rescue of two additional victims.
“Today, the Edo State Police Command is pleased to inform the general public that the remaining six abducted passengers have all been rescued unhurt,” the statement read.
The Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, commended officers involved in the operation for what the command described as their courage, resilience and professionalism throughout the rescue mission.
The police boss also assured residents that security operatives were intensifying efforts to apprehend those responsible for the abduction.
“The Command is not relenting in its efforts as intensive bush combing operations are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators of this crime,” the statement added.
