Police authorities in Edo State have launched an intensive search-and-rescue operation following a violent attack on a commercial bus along the Lagos–Benin Expressway.
According to the spokesperson of the Edo State Police Command, Eno Ikoedem, the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, has ordered a coordinated response across the Ore–Benin axis and surrounding forest areas to track down the attackers and rescue the abducted passengers.
He explained that the Anti-Kidnapping Unit has been deployed alongside tactical teams, while local hunters and vigilante groups are also supporting ongoing operations in the forests.
During the attack, armed men reportedly opened fire on the vehicle, killing the driver instantly. A female passenger who sustained gunshot injuries was rescued and is currently receiving treatment in stable condition at a hospital.
The police confirmed that three passengers were abducted and taken into a nearby forest by the assailants. The victims were among passengers travelling from Lagos to the eastern part of the country when the incident occurred around 6:00 p.m. on Saturday at the Iguobazuwa axis.
Authorities assured residents that efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the victims and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
