By Deborah Nnamdi
The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of 11 out of the 18 passengers abducted by gunmen along the Benin–Akure Highway in Edo State.
The passengers were kidnapped on Friday, December 12, near Obarenren village in Ovia North-East Local Government Area while travelling in a commercial vehicle operated by a popular transport company in the state.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, told newsmen that security agencies were intensifying efforts to secure the release of the remaining seven victims.
According to the police, the vehicle was ambushed at gunpoint by suspected kidnappers, who forcefully abducted all the occupants and escaped into nearby bushes.
Following a distress report, the Divisional Police Command in the area immediately launched a coordinated rescue operation in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, local vigilantes, and hunters. The joint team combed the surrounding forests and hideouts in search of the abductors.
The operation recorded success on Sunday with the rescue of 11 of the kidnapped passengers. The victims have since been reunited with their families, while security forces continue the search for the remaining abducted persons.
The Edo State Police Command assured residents that security would be further strengthened across the state, especially as the yuletide season approaches, stressing that Edo would not be allowed to become a haven for criminal elements.
