Sixteen (16) victims were successfully rescued unhurt. Efforts are ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of the remaining victims, while an intensive manhunt is being carried out to apprehend the perpetrators

Sixteen (16) victims were successfully rescued unhurt. Efforts are ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of the remaining victims, while an intensive manhunt is being carried out to apprehend the perpetrators

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This was revealed in a press statement signed by CSP Moses Joel Yamu, anipr Police Public Relations Officer Edo State Command dated 6th September, 2025

The Edo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that on Friday, 5th September, 2025, at about 1630hrs, credible information was received that a Toyota Hiace bus with the inscription New Edo Line Transport Company and registration number EDO 14 B03 ED, conveying passengers from Auchi to Benin, and a Toyota Camry car with registration number LAGOS-KJA 833 HR, were accosted by armed men who had laid an ambush at a sharp bend between Odemwingie and Obanrenren Communities.

The hoodlums, who shot sporadically into the air, forcefully took some passengers into the nearby bush. On receipt of the information, the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc promptly deployed the Divisional Police Officer  Ekiadolor, tactical teams, vigilantes, and hunters who embarked on a massive bush-combing operation.

Through this swift and coordinated response, sixteen (16) victims were successfully rescued unhurt. Efforts are ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of the remaining victims, while an intensive manhunt is being carried out to apprehend the perpetrators.

The Command reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to the safety and security of all residents and travellers in Edo State. The Community Safety Partnership initiative recently introduced by the Commissioner of Police will further strengthen collaborative efforts between security agencies and communities in addressing security challenges of this nature.

The Edo State Police Command urges members of the public to remain calm, law-abiding, and to promptly report any suspicious movement or persons to the nearest Police Station or through the Command’s emergency lines 08037646272.