Edo Police Launch Intensive Rescue Operation After Fatal Attack on Ore-Benin Road
The Edo State Police Command has initiated a rigorous rescue operation following a violent attack on a commercial bus along the Lagos–Benin Expressway. This incident resulted in one fatality and the abduction of three passengers, prompting an immediate law enforcement response.
Details of the Attack
According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the ambush occurred on April 18 at approximately 6:00 p.m. The attack took place within the Iguobazuwa axis of the Ore–Benin corridor, a key transportation route in the region.
The targeted vehicle was a bus operated by GUO Transport Company, bearing registration number FA 280 YJ. At the time of the incident, the bus was carrying six passengers. Armed men, suspected to be kidnappers, ambushed the vehicle, leading to a chaotic and violent confrontation.
Casualties and Response
During the attack, one female passenger sustained gunshot wounds. Police operatives successfully rescued her and transported her to a hospital, where she is currently receiving treatment and showing signs of recovery. Tragically, the driver of the bus was killed in the assault. His body has been deposited at a hospital mortuary for further procedures.
However, three other passengers were forcibly taken by the assailants and abducted into a nearby forest. The attacked vehicle has been recovered by authorities as part of the ongoing investigation.
Police Action and Coordination
In response to this grave incident, the Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Monday Agbonika, has ordered what the command describes as a coordinated and rigorous rescue operation. This operation spans the affected axis and adjoining forest areas to locate and secure the abducted individuals.
All divisions along the Ore–Benin axis and boundary forests have been directed to embark on an intensive search and rescue mission, led by their respective Area Commanders, the police statement emphasized. To bolster these efforts, operatives from the Anti-Kidnapping Unit have been deployed to reinforce the ongoing operations.
Collaborative Efforts
The police are working in close collaboration with local hunters and vigilante groups to comb the forests thoroughly. This joint effort aims to track down both the victims and the suspects involved in the attack. The command has assured the public of its unwavering commitment to securing the safe release of the abducted passengers and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.
Authorities are urging residents and community members to provide any credible information that could assist in the ongoing operations. Public cooperation is seen as vital to enhancing the effectiveness of the rescue mission and preventing future incidents along this critical transport corridor.
