Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have successfully rescued 16 of the 29 passengers abducted on Friday evening along the busy Benin-Auchi road by suspected armed kidnappers.
The incident has once again highlighted the growing security challenges on major highways in the region.
CSP Moses Yamu, spokesperson for the Edo State Police Command, confirmed the rescue on Saturday in Benin City.
He assured that the police, in collaboration with other security agencies, remain fully committed to locating and securing the release of the remaining victims.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the gunmen launched their attack on an 18-seater bus operated by the New Edo Line Transport Company, as well as two other vehicles traveling along the route.
Eyewitnesses described how the attackers ambushed the vehicles at the Sobe axis of the road, forcibly dragging 29 passengers into the surrounding bush under the cover of darkness.
Sources revealed that immediately after the abduction, a joint security operation was mobilized.
The operation involved personnel from the Edo State Police Command, the Nigerian Army, local vigilante groups, and hunters familiar with the terrain.
The team conducted extensive combing of the forested areas along the highway, which ultimately led to the safe recovery of 16 passengers.
All those rescued were reportedly unharmed, though visibly shaken by the ordeal.
CSP Yamu commended the collaborative efforts of the security teams and stressed that the command will continue to pursue the kidnappers relentlessly.
“Our mission is to ensure the safe return of every victim. We are leaving no stone unturned, and the perpetrators will be brought to justice,” he said.
Residents and travelers along the Benin-Auchi corridor have expressed concerns over the rising spate of highway attacks and have called for increased patrols and surveillance to guarantee the safety of commuters.
The police have assured the public that measures are being stepped up to prevent future incidents and strengthen security along this vulnerable stretch of road.