Operatives of the Edo State Police Command in synergy with vigilantes and local hunters, have rescued 16 passengers kidnapped by gunmen on the Benin-Ore Expressway and Benin–Lagos Road.
13 passengers were whisked away by armed men around Ekhiadolor on the Benin-Ore Expressway Saturday afternoon, August 23, 2025 after gunmen attacked the bus they were in.
The kidnappers had shot the bus driver and abandoned him beside the bus before marching the victims into surrounding bushes.
The spokesperson of the command, CSP Moses Yamu, who disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, August 26, said additional three victims were safely rescued along the Benin–Lagos Road.
“The Edo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of the successful rescue of sixteen (16) kidnapped victims in separate coordinated operations carried out along Benin–Lagos and Benin–Akure Roads,” the statement read.
“On 23rd August, 2025, at about 1730hrs and 1800hrs respectively, armed kidnappers blocked the highways and abducted innocent travellers. Distress calls were immediately received, prompting swift mobilisation of security resources.
“Operatives of Iguobazuwa Division and Ekiadolor Division, in synergy with Tactical Teams, Vigilantes, and Local Hunters, embarked on intensive and rigorous bush-combing operations to pursue the hoodlums and secure the release of the victims.
“Demonstrating strong leadership and personal commitment, the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, *CP Monday Agbonika, fdc,* personally led the operation along the Benin–Akure axis. To enhance precision and coordination, the Command deployed advanced technical support, including drones, which proved instrumental in the rescue efforts.
“These combined efforts yielded significant success as six (6) victims were rescued along the Benin–Akure Road, one (1) who sustained gunshot injury during the attack and rescued from the scene by public-spirited individuals is currently responding to treatment.
“Similarly, three (3) additional victims were safely rescued along the Benin–Lagos Road.
“Furthermore, seven (7) victims of the Benin-Akure road kidnap regained their freedom in the evening of 25th August, 2025.”
The Commissioner of Police commended the gallantry and professionalism of the operatives, as well as the vital role played by Vigilantes and Local Hunters in the operations.
He noted that the synergy between formal law enforcement and community structures continues to prove effective in tackling violent crime.
CP Monday Agbonika further assured the public that the Command will not relent until the remaining victims are safely rescued and the perpetrators apprehended.
He reiterated the resolve of the Edo State Police Command to ensure that criminals find no hiding place within the State.
“We are determined to rid our highways and communities of violent crime, and we will continue to deploy all resources, both human and technological, to guarantee the safety of every resident and travellers,” the CP said.
“The Edo State Police Command remains steadfast in its mission to protect lives and property, and calls on members of the public to continue to trust and support the Police as we work together to secure our communities.”
