Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have launched a rescue operation following the abduction of passengers from a commercial bus along the Lagos–Benin Expressway.
The incident, which occurred on April 18 at about 6:00 p.m. in the Iguobazuwa axis, involved a bus belonging to GUO Transport Company travelling to the South-East.
This is contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the command’s spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem.
According to the statement, the bus, conveying five passengers, was attacked by suspected kidnappers who opened fire on the vehicle.
The police confirmed that the driver was shot and died from injuries sustained during the attack.
“One female passenger who sustained gunshot injuries was rescued by the police and rushed to the hospital, where she is currently receiving treatment and responding positively,” the spokesperson said.
She added that three other passengers were abducted by the assailants and taken into a nearby forest.
In response, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Monday Agbonika, has ordered a coordinated rescue operation.
“All divisions along the Ore–Benin axis and adjoining forest areas have been directed to embark on intensive search and rescue operations, led by their respective Area Commanders,” Ikoedem said.
She noted that operatives from the Anti-Kidnapping Unit at the state headquarters had also been deployed to reinforce ongoing operations.
According to her, police tactical teams, in collaboration with local hunters and vigilantes, are currently combing the forests to ensure the safe rescue of the victims and the arrest of the perpetrators.
The spokesperson said the remains of the deceased driver had been deposited at a mortuary, while the vehicle had been recovered.
She assured the public that the command remains committed to rescuing the victims and bringing those responsible to justice.
The police also urged members of the public to remain calm and provide credible information that could assist ongoing operations.
Ravenewsonline reports that security agencies have continued efforts to tackle kidnapping and violent crimes along major highways across the country.
