The Edo State Police Command on Friday, September 5, 2025, foiled a kidnap attempt and rescued 16 passengers abducted along the Auchi–Benin Highway.
According to a statement from the Command, armed men had laid an ambush at a sharp bend between Odemwingie and Obanrenren communities, attacking a Toyota Hiace bus belonging to the New Edo Line Transport Company (Reg. No. EDO 14 B03 ED) and a Toyota Camry car (Reg. No. LAGOS-KJA 833 HR).
The hoodlums, who shot sporadically, forcefully took some passengers into the bush. On receiving the report, the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, ordered the immediate deployment of tactical teams, the Divisional Police Officer, Ekiadolor, vigilantes, and local hunters.
The swift operation led to the safe rescue of 16 victims, while efforts are ongoing to free the remaining passengers and apprehend the suspects.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to the safety of residents and travellers, stressing that its recently launched Community Safety Partnership Initiative would strengthen collaboration between security agencies and communities.
Residents were urged to remain calm, law-abiding, and report suspicious movements to the nearest police station or call 08077773721 and 08037646272.
