Edo State Police successfully foiled a kidnapping attempt on June 21, 2026, rescuing passengers from a bus. Operatives from the Ugo Division responded to a distress call, confronting criminals involved in the incident. The swift action by law enforcement prevented what could have been a more severe outcome for the travelers. Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, stated, "operatives attached to the Ugo Division swiftly responded to a distress call received at about 6:46 p.m. And mobilised to the scene to confront the criminals." This immediate response was key in disrupting the abduction attempt.
Swift Police Response
The incident unfolded at a failed section of the Benin–Abraka Road, specifically near the NNPC Pipeline axis, a location often prone to such criminal activities due to its challenging road conditions. The criminals had taken advantage of the deteriorated segment to ambush the unsuspecting travelers. Following the initial confrontation, the Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, deployed additional reinforcement teams. These teams were tasked with tracking down the suspects who had fled the scene after the police intervention. The coordinated response aimed to ensure the apprehension of those responsible for the attempted abduction, bolstering security efforts along the critical transportation route and sending a clear message to criminal elements. The deployment of extra personnel showed the seriousness with which the command viewed the incident and its commitment to public safety.
Victim Details and Treatment
Suspected kidnappers intercepted a bus belonging to Muyi Line Transport Company, which was traveling from Abraka to Benin. The assailants initiated their attack by opening fire on the bus, a tactic designed to instill fear and force the driver to bring the vehicle to a halt. This sudden aggression created a chaotic scene for the passengers. Police intervention resulted in the rescue of all passengers, though one sustained injuries during the incident. All passengers were rescued unhurt, except for this single individual who required medical attention. The injured victim received treatment at the Ugo Health Centre for a pellet injury. Following medical attention, the individual was subsequently discharged from the facility, a testament to the prompt medical care received.
Ongoing Manhunt
Police engaged the suspected kidnappers in a fierce gun duel, forcing the assailants to abandon their abduction attempt and flee into the dense forest. The confrontation occurred after operatives from the Ugo Division responded to the distress call received at approximately 6:46 p.m. This active pursuit into the dense terrain shows the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to apprehend the perpetrators and dismantle their criminal network. Additional reinforcement teams, deployed by CP Monday Agbonika, Commissioner of Police in Edo State, continue the search for the fleeing suspects to ensure they are brought to justice. The police operation prevented further harm to the bus passengers and successfully disrupted the criminal activity, demonstrating the police force's commitment to protecting citizens. The relentless pursuit aims to deter future attacks on this vital road.
Official Statement
The suspected kidnappers initiated the attack by opening fire on the bus, subsequently forcing the driver to bring the vehicle to a halt. This aggressive maneuver was intended to gain control of the vehicle and its occupants. During the incident, Mr. Isaac Olotu Temitope sustained a pellet injury to his right toe. Following the rescue operation, Mr. Temitope received medical attention at the Ugo Health Centre for his wound. After treatment, he was discharged from the facility, now recovering from the traumatic experience. The police response prevented further casualties and ensured the safety of the remaining passengers on the Muyi Line Transport Company bus, who were all rescued unhurt. Law enforcement officials continue to pursue the perpetrators involved in the attempted abduction, with a commitment to bringing them to justice and enhancing security on the Benin–Abraka Road.
