Police Launch Rescue Operation After Lagos–Benin Highway Attack

By Abah Margaret

The Edo State Police Command has commenced a coordinated rescue operation following the abduction of passengers during 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, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said the incident occurred on April 18, 2026, at about 6:00 p.m., when suspected kidnappers ambushed a GUO Transport Company bus with registration number FA 280 YJ.

According to the statement, the gunmen opened fire on the vehicle, killing the driver on the spot. A total of five passengers were reportedly on board at the time of the attack.

Police disclosed that one female passenger, who sustained gunshot injuries, was rescued by responding officers and taken to a hospital, where she is currently receiving treatment and responding positively. Three other passengers were abducted and taken into a nearby forest.

Following the incident, 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 corridor and boundary forests to embark on intensive bush-combing operations to rescue the victims and apprehend the perpetrators,” the statement read.

The Command added that operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit have been deployed to reinforce ongoing operations, working alongside tactical teams, local hunters, and vigilante groups to comb surrounding forests.

Police also confirmed that the body of the deceased driver has been deposited in a hospital mortuary, while the recovered vehicle has been secured as investigations continue.

Reassuring the public, the Command stated: “We remain resolute and will not relent until the victims are safely rescued and those responsible are brought to justice.”

The police further urged members of the public to support ongoing operations by providing credible and timely information that could aid the rescue efforts.

Meanwhile, eyewitness accounts circulating online described the attack as violent, with reports of heavy gunfire. One witness said, “The kidnappers shot and killed the driver and took some passengers into the bush.”

Authorities, however, reiterated that rescue operations are ongoing and intensified efforts are underway to ensure the safe return of the abducted passengers.