Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have foiled a kidnapping attempt along the Benin–Abraka Road and rescued passengers of a commercial bus after engaging armed kidnappers in a fierce gun duel.
The dramatic operation took place on June 21, 2026, near the NNPC Pipeline axis, a section of the road notorious for its failed portions and security concerns.
According to the police, the suspected kidnappers intercepted a commercial bus belonging to Muyi Line Transport Company, with registration number BEN 730 YE, which was travelling from Abraka in Delta State to Benin City.
The gunmen reportedly emerged from the bush, opened fire on the vehicle and forced the driver to stop, sparking fear among passengers.
However, their operation was cut short following a distress call received by officers of the Ugo Police Division at about 6:46 p.m.
Acting swiftly, the operatives mobilised to the scene and confronted the hoodlums in a gun battle.
The police said the superior firepower and tactical response of the officers overwhelmed the criminals, forcing them to abandon their mission and flee into the surrounding forest.
All passengers aboard the vehicle were successfully rescued.
One of the passengers, Mr. Isaac Olotu Temitope, from Ado-Ekiti in Ekiti State, sustained a pellet injury to his right toe during the attack.
He was immediately rushed to the Ugo Health Centre, where he received treatment and was later discharged to continue his journey.
Confirming the development, the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, Monday Agbonika, commended the officers for their bravery and swift response in preventing what could have been a major kidnapping incident.
The police commissioner also disclosed that reinforcement teams had been deployed from the command headquarters to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects.
Agbonika reassured residents and motorists of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state and urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements to security agencies.
The successful rescue operation comes amid ongoing efforts by security forces to combat kidnapping and violent crimes on major highways across Edo State.
