The Edo State Police Command on Saturday announced the rescue of nine victims abducted in two separate incidents along the Benin–Lagos Expressway.
In a statement, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said the operation followed recent attacks along the busy highway, including a reported assault on a GUO Transport bus.
According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, ordered the immediate and large-scale deployment of tactical teams, intelligence units, aerial surveillance, and other operational resources to the affected corridor, which led to the successful rescue.
“The sustained rescue efforts, coordinated bush-combing operations, and strategic domination of the area exerted pressure on the kidnappers, ultimately leading to the safe rescue of all victims. They have since undergone medical evaluation and treatment and have been reunited with their families,” the statement read.
It further disclosed that four victims abducted earlier in the month and held within the Imiegba forest in Agenebode were also rescued.
“They have likewise received medical attention and are safe, bringing the total number of rescued victims to nine,” it added.
The Command reassured the public, particularly commuters and residents, that security deployment along the Benin–Lagos Expressway and adjoining communities has been significantly strengthened.
“Tactical, intelligence, and operational assets have been fully activated across the axis, and the deployments will remain in place until the route is completely safe and secure for all road users,” the statement said.
It also noted that efforts are ongoing to apprehend those responsible for the attacks.
“We are confident that all those involved will be tracked down and brought to justice in the shortest possible time,” the Command added.
