The Edo State Police Command on Saturday announced the rescue of nine victims abducted in two separate incidents along the Benin–Lagos Expressway.
In a statement, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, explained that the rescue followed recent attacks along the busy highway, including an alleged assault on a GUO Transport bus.
The statement noted that the swift and extensive deployment of tactical teams, intelligence resources, aerial surveillance, and other operational assets by the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, led to the successful outcome of the operation.
“The sustained rescue efforts, coordinated bush-combing operations, and strategic domination of the area exerted pressure on the kidnappers ultimately leading to the safe rescue of all victims. They have since received medical evaluation and treatment, and reunited with their families”, the statement read.
It further disclosed that four additional victims, who were abducted earlier this month and held captive in the Imiegba forest in Agenebode, were also rescued.
“They have likewise received medical attention and are safe, making a total of nine kidnapped victims rescued.
“The Edo State Police Command wishes to reassure the public, particularly commuters and residents, that security deployment along the Benin–Lagos Expressway and adjoining communities has been significantly strengthened”, the statement added.
The Command emphasised that tactical, intelligence, and operational resources have been fully activated across the area and will remain in place until the route is completely safe for all road users.
It also stated that efforts are ongoing to apprehend those responsible for the crimes.
“We are confident that all those involved will be tracked down and brought to justice in the shortest possible time”.