Benin-Akure highway kidnapping has left communities in fear after gunmen abducted about 18 passengers along the busy road in Edo State.
The Benin-Akure highway kidnapping occurred near Obarenren village in Ovia North East Local Government Area, according to security sources.
Gunmen attack bus, abduct passengers
Witnesses said the attackers blocked the Benin-Akure highway kidnapping route and fired sporadically to create panic among commuters.
The passengers were travelling in an 18-seater Big Joe commercial bus when the gunmen struck and forced victims into the surrounding bush.
Police confirm incident, launch manhunt
Spokesperson of the Edo State Police Command, Eno Ikoedem, confirmed the Benin-Akure highway kidnapping and said security agencies immediately began operations.
She said joint teams of the police and Nigerian Army were deployed to track the abductors and rescue the victims.
Ikoedem explained that sustained bush combing operations yielded positive results, leading to the rescue of 11 passengers.
According to her, “The incident happened last Saturday. The passengers were in an 18-seater Big Joe bus. We have been combing the bush in collaboration with the Nigerian Army.”
She added, “No arrest has been made yet.”
Search continues as residents raise concerns
Security operatives are continuing operations in the area, as the Benin-Akure highway kidnapping has renewed concerns over safety on the route.
Residents and regular road users have urged authorities to increase patrols to prevent further Benin-Akure highway kidnapping incidents.