The Edo State Police Command has initiated a rescue operation after suspected kidnappers attacked a commercial bus carrying passengers on Sunday along the Benin–Ore stretch of the Lagos Expressway.
Report stated that a woman who suffered gunshot wounds during the incident has been rescued.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the command’s spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, said the injured victim was taken to an undisclosed hospital, where she is currently responding to treatment.
She further disclosed that three individuals were abducted and taken into the bush, while confirming that the driver died from injuries sustained during the attempted kidnapping.
The statement reads, “The Edo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of a tragic incident that occurred on April 18, 2026, at about 18:00hrs along the Lagos–Benin Express Road within the Iguobazuwa axis.
“Preliminary reports indicate that a commercial bus belonging to GUO Transport Company, with registration number FA 280 YJ, conveying five persons, was attacked by unknown armed men suspected to be kidnappers. During the attack, the driver was shot and fatally injured.
“Following a swift police response, one female passenger who sustained gunshot injuries was rescued and immediately rushed to the hospital, where she is receiving treatment and responding positively.
“The command further confirms that three other passengers were abducted by the assailants and taken into the nearby forest.”
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, has directed a coordinated and intensive rescue effort, instructing all divisions along the Ore–Benin corridor and surrounding forests to begin a thorough search-and-rescue mission under their respective Area Commanders.
He also noted that operatives from the command’s anti-kidnapping unit at the state headquarters have been deployed to support the ongoing operations.
In addition, tactical teams, working alongside local hunters and vigilantes, are actively combing the area to secure the safe release of the abducted victims and apprehend those responsible.
The body of the deceased driver has been deposited in a hospital mortuary after confirmation of his death, while the vehicle involved has been recovered.
The command assured the public of its commitment, stating it will not relent until the victims are rescued and the perpetrators brought to justice.
Residents have been urged to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful and timely information to support the ongoing operation.
PUNCH earlier reported that gunmen suspected to be kidnappers killed a bus driver and abducted several passengers during the attack.
It was gathered that the bus was travelling from Lagos to the eastern part of the country when it came under heavy gunfire, forcing it to stop.
A viral video circulating online showed the aftermath of the attack, with a narrator claiming that the gunmen opened fire on the vehicle before taking passengers away.
The narrator said, “The kidnappers shot and killed the driver. They also took passengers into the bush. I don’t know the number, but it looks like the entire bus was taken.”
