The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of seven passengers along the Benin–Akure Road, between Obarenren and Odunwongie communities, following an attack on a commercial vehicle.
Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said in a statement on Tuesday that police operatives rescued eight victims, including three children, while efforts were ongoing to locate the remaining abducted passengers.
According to the statement, the incident occurred on October 25, 2025, around 4:30 p.m., when gunshots were heard near a military checkpoint. A 14-seater Hummer Bus, with registration number KJA 119 XF and driven by one Francis Okeke of Afuze in Owan East, was ambushed by gunmen who took 15 passengers into the bush.
Police operatives from the Ekiadolor Division responded swiftly to a distress call and engaged the kidnappers in pursuit, leading to the successful rescue of eight victims. The rescued passengers were unharmed and later reunited with their families.
The police confirmed that an intensive manhunt was underway to track down the perpetrators and secure the release of the remaining seven victims, with the aid of advanced surveillance technology.
“The Command assures the public that no effort will be spared in ensuring the safety of all residents and commuters. Members of the public are urged to remain calm and report any suspicious movement,” the statement read.
Recent incidents of abduction have continued across Edo State despite intensified security patrols. A retired headmaster, identified as Mr. Eliaser Olorunloju, was recently kidnapped in Akoko-Edo, with his abductors reportedly demanding a N70 million ransom.
In a separate case, the Edo State Security Corps rescued a teenager, Blessing, while another victim, Aisha Wahab, regained freedom days after her abduction in Auchi.
