Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Edo State Police Command has successfully rescued the last six passengers who were abducted on 9 May 2026 during an armed attack on a Young Shall Grow Motors bus traveling from Akwa Ibom to Lagos along the Benin‑Lagos Road. The operation, which spanned more than two weeks, employed drones, aerial surveillance and sustained bush‑combing tactics, leading to the safe return of all 13 victims.
The incident began on 9 May 2026 at about 8:00 a.m. The bus, which was carrying 13 passengers, was attacked at Ogua community along the highway. Eyewitness reports said a group of armed men emerged from the bush and forced the driver to stop, then opened fire on the vehicle. During the assault, a female passenger was shot and injured. The gunmen then took all 13 passengers hostage and dragged them into the dense forest. Family members and fellow travellers reported the disappearance to the police later that day.
According to a statement issued by the police command’s spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the first rescue phase occurred on 9 May, when officers used intelligence and immediate bush‑combing to free five of the captives – two adults and three children. On 10 May, operatives intensified the operation with drones, aerial surveillance and intelligence‑driven policing. The technological assets allowed them to locate the kidnappers’ position and engage them in a gun duel, which resulted in the safe recovery of two more passengers. After that breakthrough, the command continued intensive tracking and bush‑combing operations. Finally, on 23 May 2026, Ikoedem announced that “the remaining six abducted passengers have all been rescued unhurt.” The police have not released the identities or exact condition of the six individuals, but confirmed that they are receiving medical and psychological support.
The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, praised the officers for their professionalism and persistence. “The command is not relenting in its efforts as intensive bush combing operations are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators of this crime,” CP Agbonika said in a statement. He also assured residents that the police remain committed to pursuing the kidnappers until they are brought to justice.
This rescue operation stands out for its use of modern technology in a region where kidnapping for ransom has become increasingly common. The Edo State Police Command’s deployment of drones and aerial surveillance allowed them to track the kidnappers into the forest without endangering the captives. Security analysts have called the operation a model for future responses to highway abductions. However, the final phase of the mission – the apprehension of the perpetrators – is still ongoing, and the command has urged anyone with information to come forward.
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