Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have launched a comprehensive rescue operation to secure the safe release of three passengers abducted from a GUO Transport Company bus along the Lagos–Benin Express road. The incident, which occurred on April 18, 2026, has prompted a swift and coordinated response from law enforcement agencies.
Details of the Tragic Attack
According to preliminary reports, the commercial bus, with registration number FA 280 YJ, was conveying five persons when it was attacked by unknown armed men suspected to be kidnappers at approximately 1800hrs along the Iguobazuwa axis of the expressway. During the violent assault, the driver was shot and fatally injured, succumbing to his wounds at the scene.
Casualties and Abductions
The spokesperson for the Edo State Police Command, ASP Eno Ikoedem, confirmed in a statement issued on Tuesday, April 21, that one female passenger sustained gunshot injuries during the attack. She was promptly rescued by police responders and rushed to a hospital, where she is currently receiving treatment and responding positively to medical care.
ASP Ikoedem further disclosed that three other passengers were abducted by the assailants and taken into the nearby forest. The assailants' motives appear to be kidnapping for ransom, a recurring security challenge in the region.
Coordinated Rescue Efforts
In response to the abduction, the Commissioner of Police for Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, has ordered a rigorous and coordinated rescue operation. All police 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.
Additionally, operatives from the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit at the State Headquarters have been deployed to reinforce ongoing operations in the forests. Tactical teams are collaborating with local hunters and vigilantes to comb the area thoroughly, aiming to ensure the safe rescue of the kidnapped victims and the apprehension of the perpetrators.
Recovery and Public Assurance
The corpse of the deceased driver has been deposited at a hospital mortuary following confirmation of death, and the vehicle involved in the incident has been recovered by authorities. The Edo State Police Command has assured the public of its resolute commitment to the operation, vowing not to relent until the victims are safely rescued and the criminals are brought to justice.
Members of the public are urged to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely information that could aid the ongoing operations. This incident underscores the persistent security challenges along major highways in Nigeria and highlights the need for enhanced vigilance and collaborative efforts between law enforcement and communities.
