Police authorities have begun rescue operation for ill-fated commercial bus abduction that occurred on 18th April, 2026 at about 1800 hours on the Lagos–Benin Express Road within the Iguobazuwa axis.
The spokesperson of the Nigeria police Command in Edo State, ASP Eno Ikoedem said in a statement on Tuesday that the driver of GUO Transport Company, vehicle marked FA 280 YJ, was shot dead by suspected kidnappers.
She revealed that five persons in the vehicle and three other passengers attacked and abducted by the assailants and taken into the nearby forest in the tragic incident.
The police spokesperson explained that body of the slain driver and deposited at hospital mortuary, while the vehicle have been recovered by the police, which immediately launched a manhunt.
“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 dead has been deposited at the hospital mortuary, while the vehicle has been recovered”, ASP Ikoedem stated.
The police image maker, assured the public that the Command remains resolute and will not relent until the victims are safely rescued and the criminals brought to justice.
She also urged members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely information that could aid ongoing operations.
