Police Rescue 11 Kidnapped Passengers on Benin Akure Highway in Edo

The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of 11 passengers who were abducted by gunmen along the Benin Akure highway near Obarenren village in Ovia North East Local Government Area of the state.

The passengers were among 18 travellers kidnapped on December 12 when armed men attacked their vehicle while it was in transit along the busy highway. The assailants reportedly forced the vehicle to stop before taking the passengers into a nearby bush.

Following the incident, the police launched a coordinated rescue operation involving tactical teams and local security operatives. According to the command, sustained pressure from security forces led to the safe release of 11 victims.

The rescued passengers have since been reunited with their families and are currently receiving medical attention and counselling.

Police authorities said efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining seven victims and to apprehend those responsible for the attack. They assured residents and road users that intensified patrols and surveillance have been deployed along the highway to prevent further incidents.

The command urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movement or activity to the nearest security agency.