The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of nine victims abducted in separate incidents along the Benin–Lagos Expressway, following intensified security operations in the area.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Command’s spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said the operation was launched in response to a series of attacks on the busy route, including a reported assault on a commercial bus.
According to the police, the breakthrough came after the deployment of tactical teams, intelligence units, aerial surveillance, and other operational resources ordered by the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika.
“The sustained rescue efforts, coordinated bush-combing operations, and strategic domination of the area exerted pressure on the kidnappers, ultimately leading to the safe rescue of all victims.
”They have since received medical evaluation and treatment, and reunited with their families,” the statement said.
The Command disclosed that four of the victims had been held earlier this month in captivity within the Imiegba forest in Agenebode before their eventual rescue.
Their recovery, alongside others freed in related operations, brought the total number of rescued victims to nine.
Police authorities reassured residents and commuters that security presence along the expressway and adjoining communities has been significantly reinforced.
They noted that tactical and intelligence deployments would remain active until the corridor is fully secured.
“The Edo State Police Command wishes to reassure the public, particularly commuters and residents, that security deployment along the Benin–Lagos Expressway and adjoining communities has been significantly strengthened,” the statement added.
The Command also said efforts are ongoing to apprehend those responsible for the kidnappings, expressing confidence that the perpetrators would soon be brought to justice.
“We are confident that all those involved will be tracked down and brought to justice in the shortest possible time,” the statement said.
The command reiterated its commitment to maintaining safety along one of the country’s busiest highways, amid growing concerns over insecurity in the region.
