The Edo State Police Command has confirmed that a large-scale rescue operation is underway following the abduction of passengers after an attack on a commercial bus along the Lagos–Benin Expressway in the Iguobazuwa axis.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, said the incident occurred on April 18, 2026, at about 6:00 p.m. when suspected kidnappers targeted a vehicle belonging to GUO Transport Company, with registration number FA 280 YJ.
According to the statement, the attackers opened fire on the bus, killing the driver in the process. Five passengers were reportedly on board at the time of the attack.
One female passenger who sustained gunshot injuries was rescued by responding officers and taken to a hospital, where she is “receiving treatment and responding positively.” However, three other passengers were abducted and forced into a nearby forest by the assailants.
In response, the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, ordered an immediate escalation of rescue efforts across adjoining divisions along the Ore–Benin axis.
“The Commissioner of Police has directed all adjoining divisions along the Ore–Benin axis and boundary forests to embark on intensive bush combing operations to rescue the victims and arrest the perpetrators,” the statement said.
The police added that operatives from the Anti-Kidnapping Unit have been deployed to reinforce ongoing operations. Tactical teams are also working in collaboration with local hunters and vigilantes to comb surrounding forest areas in search of the abducted passengers.
Authorities confirmed that the driver’s body has been deposited at a hospital mortuary, while the recovered vehicle has been secured as investigations continue.
Reassuring the public, the Command said, “The Command remains resolute and will not relent until the victims are safely rescued and the criminals brought to justice,” while also urging citizens to assist with “credible and timely information.”
Earlier eyewitness reports circulating online described intense gunfire during the attack, with one account stating, “the kidnappers shot and killed the driver. They also took passengers into the bush.”
Despite the incident, the police maintain that rescue operations are ongoing, with efforts being intensified to ensure the safe return of those abducted.
