By Peter Omopo
September 6, 2025 | Benin City
The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of 16 passengers abducted by kidnappers along the Benin-Auchi Road on Friday.
Police spokesperson, Moses Yamu, disclosed the development in a statement on Saturday, noting that efforts are ongoing to free others still held captive.
The incident, which occurred around 4:30 p.m. on Friday, involved passengers travelling in an Edoline bus and a Toyota Corolla car. A viral video from the scene showed the abandoned vehicles, with the narrator reporting that about 18 travellers had been forced into the bush by gunmen.
The video also captured several vehicles parked on the highway as drivers hesitated to continue their journey amid fears of further attacks. The narrator, however, assured motorists that police operatives had already launched a rescue mission at the scene.
Confirming the rescue, Yamu said:
“Sixteen of the victims have been rescued so far, as the search and rescue operation by the command in collaboration with vigilantes and hunters continues.”
He declined to confirm the exact number of persons abducted but stressed that security agencies were determined to ensure the safe return of all remaining hostages.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about the spate of kidnappings on highways in Edo State, despite ongoing security operations aimed at curbing banditry in the region.
