The Nigeria Police Force in Edo State has commenced a coordinated rescue operation following the abduction of passengers during an attack on the Lagos–Benin Expressway.
The Edo State Police Command said the incident occurred on April 18, 2026, around 6:00 p.m. at the Iguobazuwa axis, when suspected kidnappers attacked a commercial bus belonging to GUO Transport Company.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, the gunmen reportedly opened fire on the vehicle, killing the driver.
The police said five passengers were on board at the time of the attack. One female passenger who sustained gunshot injuries was rescued by security operatives and taken to hospital.
“She is receiving treatment and responding positively,” the statement said.
The command added that three other passengers were abducted and taken into a nearby forest.
Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, ordered an immediate escalation of rescue efforts across the Ore–Benin corridor.
“The Commissioner of Police has directed all adjoining divisions along the Ore–Benin axis and boundary forests to embark on intensive bush combing operations to rescue the victims and arrest the perpetrators,” the statement said.
According to the police, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, supported by tactical teams, local hunters and vigilantes, have been deployed to comb surrounding forests in search of the victims.
The command also confirmed that the driver’s remains have been deposited in a mortuary, while the attacked vehicle has been secured as investigations continue.
Reassuring residents, the police said efforts are ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted passengers and bring those responsible to justice.
“The Command remains resolute and will not relent until the victims are safely rescued and the criminals brought to justice,” it stated, urging members of the public to provide credible information to aid the operation.