Esther Salifu
The Edo State Police Command has intensified efforts to rescue seven passengers abducted by gunmen along the Benin–Akure Road, between Obarenren and Odunwongie communities, in what authorities describe as a targeted highway attack.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said police operatives from the Ekiadolor Division swiftly responded to a distress call received around 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 25, following reports of sporadic gunfire near a military and anti-kidnapping checkpoint in the area.
Preliminary investigations revealed that a 14-seater Hummer bus with registration number KJA 119 XF, driven by Francis Okeke of Afuze in Owan East Local Government Area, was ambushed by armed men who took 15 passengers into the surrounding forest.
Police officers, according to the statement, immediately pursued the assailants and rescued eight victims, including three children, unhurt.
However, seven others remain missing as a combined team of tactical units continues a search and rescue operation backed by technological surveillance.
“An aggressive manhunt for the perpetrators is in progress to ensure the safe return of the remaining victims,” Ikoedem said, adding that the driver of the vehicle is assisting investigators.
The Command urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement agencies, assuring that no effort will be spared in restoring safety along the state’s highways. Members of the public with useful information have been encouraged to contact the police through the Control Room hotlines: 08077773721 and 08037646272.
