The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of passengers along the Benin–Akure Highway and the rescue of 11 out of the 18 victims taken by unknown gunmen.

As reported by Channels TV on Tuesday, the incident occurred on Friday, December 12, around Obarenren village in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, while the passengers were travelling in a vehicle belonging to a popular commercial transport operator.

Confirming the incident, in a telephone interview with the station, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, revealed that efforts were ongoing to rescue the remaining victims.

“The vehicle was ambushed at gunpoint, and all the occupants were forcefully taken away by the suspected kidnappers,” he said.

ASP Ikoedem added that security agencies responded swiftly after the incident was reported.

“Upon receiving the report, the Divisional Police Command in the area immediately launched a rescue operation in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, local vigilantes, and hunters,” he stated.

He said the joint security team combed the surrounding bushes and forested areas in search of the abducted passengers and the perpetrators.

“The operation yielded results on Sunday with the rescue of 11 of the 18 abducted passengers,” he said.

According to him, the rescued passengers have since been reunited with their families, while security operatives continue efforts to secure the release of the remaining seven victims.

The police spokesperson assured residents that security would be intensified across Edo State, particularly as the yuletide season approaches. “Edo State will not be a safe haven for criminals,” he added. (PUNCH)

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