Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have initiated a comprehensive operation aimed at locating and securing the release of passengers who were abducted from a GUO Transport Company bus. The incident occurred on the Lagos- Benin Express Road.
According to reports, the bus, which was travelling towards South-East Nigeria, was intercepted by unknown gunmen on April 18, 2026. The spokesperson for the command, ASP Eno Ikoedem, confirmed the tragic event in a statement released on Tuesday, April 21. She also verified that the driver of the bus lost his life during the assault.
ASP Ikoedem further stated that one female passenger sustained injuries from gunshots. She was promptly transported to a medical facility where she is currently receiving treatment and is reportedly recovering.
In addition to the injured passenger, the police confirmed that three other individuals were taken by the assailants.
The police spokesperson indicated that tactical teams, working in concert with local hunters and vigilante groups, are actively engaged in combing the surrounding areas to facilitate the safe return of the hostages and to apprehend those responsible for the crime.
"The Edo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of a tragic incident that occurred on 18th April, 2026 at about 1800hrs along the Lagos–Benin Express Road within the Iguobazuwa axis,” the statement detailed.
"Preliminary reports indicate that a commercial bus belonging to GUO Transport Company, with registration number FA 280 YJ, conveying five (5) persons, was attacked by unknown armed men suspected to be kidnappers.
"During the attack, the driver was shot and fatally injured.
"Following swift police response, one female passenger who sustained gunshot injuries was rescued and immediately rushed to the hospital, where she is receiving treatment and responding positively.
"The Command further confirms that three (3) other passengers were abducted by the assailants and taken into the nearby forest.
"In response, the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, has ordered a coordinated and rigorous rescue operation.
"All Divisions along the Ore–Benin axis and boundary forests have been directed to embark on an intensive search and rescue mission, to be led by their respective Area Commanders.
"Additionally, operatives from the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit at the State Headquarters have been deployed to reinforce ongoing operations in the forests.
"Tactical teams, in collaboration with local hunters and vigilantes, are currently combing the area to ensure the safe rescue of the kidnapped victims and the apprehension of the perpetrators.
"The corpse of the deceased driver upon confirmed death has been deposited at the hospital mortuary, while the vehicle has been recovered.
"The Command assures the public that it remains resolute and will not relent until the victims are safely rescued and the criminals brought to justice.
“Members of the public are urged to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely information that could aid ongoing Operations.”
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