Security operatives in Edo State have rescued nine kidnapped victims following intensified operations across the Benin-Lagos axis.
The Edo State Police Command says the victims were freed in two separate operations conducted in different parts of the state.
In a statement, the Command’s spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, said three of the victims were rescued from a kidnapping incident involving a GUO bus, while six others were freed from different abduction cases along the Benin-Lagos Expressway corridor.
The Command said all nine victims have since received medical attention and have been reunited with their families.
According to the statement, the rescue operations were carried out under the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, who deployed tactical teams, intelligence units, aerial surveillance and other operational resources to the affected areas.
It added that sustained bush-combing operations and pressure on the abductors forced them to abandon the victims.
The police also confirmed that four of the victims had been held in the Imiegba forest area of Agenebode before being rescued.
The Command assured residents that security deployment along the Benin-Lagos Expressway and adjoining communities has been strengthened, with continued surveillance and tactical presence across vulnerable routes.
It further stated that efforts are ongoing to arrest those responsible for the kidnappings, adding that they will be brought to justice.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident earlier in the week, suspected armed kidnappers attacked a commercial bus travelling from Lagos to the eastern part of the country, killing the driver and abducting several passengers after forcing the vehicle to stop.
A video circulating online showed the aftermath of the attack, with reports claiming passengers were taken into nearby bushes.
Police say investigations into the incidents are ongoing.
