Edo Police Foil Kidnap Attempt on Benin–Abraka Road, Rescue Bus Passengers
Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have thwarted a kidnapping attempt on the Benin–Abraka Road and rescued all passengers aboard a commercial bus. The Command said the incident occurred on Saturday, June 21, 2026, near the NNPC Pipeline axis.
According to a press statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikhoedem, officers of Ugo Division acted on information received at about 6:46pm. A concerned citizen alerted police that armed men had emerged at a failed portion of the road and intercepted a Muyi Line Transport Company bus.
The bus, with registration number BEN 730 YE, was traveling from Abraka in Delta State to Benin City when it was attacked. Police said the gunmen fired at the vehicle and forced the driver to stop, in an apparent attempt to abduct the occupants.
Upon receiving the distress call, Ugo Division operatives mobilized quickly to the scene and engaged the hoodlums in a gun battle. The Command noted that due to the officers’ superior firepower and tactical response, the criminals abandoned their mission and fled into the nearby bush.
All passengers in the vehicle were rescued unharmed except for one. Mr. Isaac Olotu Temitope of Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, sustained a pellet injury to his right toe during the exchange of gunfire.
The injured passenger was rushed to Ugo Health Centre for treatment. After receiving medical attention, he was discharged and allowed to continue his journey to Benin City.
The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, has deployed reinforcement teams from Command headquarters to pursue and arrest the fleeing suspects. CP Agbonika commended the officers for their swift response and bravery during the operation.
The CP reassured residents and motorists of the Command’s commitment to securing lives and property across Edo State. He urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movement to the nearest police station or other security agencies without delay.