The Nigeria Police Force in Edo State has foiled a kidnap attempt along the Benin-Abraka Road, rescuing all passengers aboard a commercial bus attacked by suspected kidnappers.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikioedem, said the incident occurred at about 6:46 p.m. on June 21, 2026, near the NNPC Pipeline axis, where a damaged section of the road had reportedly become a hotspot for criminal activities.
According to the statement, armed kidnappers intercepted a commercial bus belonging to Muyi Line Transport Company, with registration number BEN 730 YE, travelling from Abraka to Benin City. The assailants allegedly opened fire on the vehicle, forcing the driver to stop.
Police operatives from the Ugo Division reportedly responded swiftly to a distress call and engaged the suspects in a gun battle. Unable to withstand the operatives’ superior firepower and tactical response, the kidnappers abandoned their mission and fled into the surrounding bush.
All passengers on board were rescued. However, one passenger, Mr Isaac Olotu Temitope from Ado-Ekiti, sustained a pellet injury to his right toe during the attack. He was taken to the Ugo Health Centre for treatment and was later discharged.
The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, has deployed reinforcement teams from the command headquarters to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.
Agbonika praised the officers involved in the operation for their swift response and bravery, while assuring residents and road users of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or other security agencies.