The Edo State Police Command has successfully rescued all 13 passengers who were abducted on May 9, 2026, from a Young Shall Grow Motors bus traveling along the Benin-Lagos Road. The announcement was made on Saturday in a press statement signed by the command's spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem.
The abduction occurred at Ogua Community, where armed kidnappers attacked the bus carrying passengers from Akwa Ibom State to Lagos. During the attack, one female passenger was shot and injured.
In response, the police launched coordinated rescue operations involving bush combing, drone surveillance, intelligence gathering, and a gun duel with the kidnappers. Over two weeks, the passengers were rescued in phases, including women and children.
Rescue Operations Details
According to the statement, the command immediately initiated rescue efforts after the incident. On May 10, 2026, through the use of drones, aerial surveillance, and intelligence-driven policing, operatives engaged the kidnappers in a gunfight and successfully rescued two additional passengers.
“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.
Commendation and Ongoing Efforts
ASP Ikoedem noted that the Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, commended the courage and resilience of the operatives involved. CP Agbonika also reassured residents that the command is not relenting in its efforts, with intensive bush combing operations ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators.
The successful rescue highlights the effectiveness of modern policing techniques, including drone technology and intelligence-led operations, in combating kidnapping in the region.
