Police Confirm Abduction of Seven Passengers Along Benin–Akure Road

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The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of seven passengers by gunmen along the Benin–Akure Road, between Obarenren and Odunwongie communities in Edo State.

Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Benin City.

According to the statement, the incident occurred on October 25, 2025, at about 4:30 p.m., when gunshots were heard between a military checkpoint and an anti-kidnapping post in the area.

A 14-seater Hummer Bus with registration number KJA 119 XF, driven by Francis Okeke of Afuze, Owan East Local Government Area, was reportedly ambushed by armed men, who abducted 15 passengers into a nearby forest.

“Upon receiving the distress call, operatives from the Ekiadolor Division swiftly mobilised to the scene, pursued the kidnappers into the forest, and rescued eight victims, including three children, unharmed,” the police spokesperson stated.

She added that seven passengers remain unaccounted for, while an aggressive manhunt, aided by technological support, is ongoing to ensure their safe rescue.

“The Edo State Police Command assures the public that no effort will be spared in ensuring the safety of all residents and commuters within the State. Members of the public are encouraged to remain calm, vigilant, and to report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station,” the statement added.

The police also provided emergency contact numbers — 08077773721 and 08037646272 — for information relating to the incident.

Meanwhile, recent reports indicate a surge in kidnapping cases across parts of Edo State despite ongoing security operations.

A retired headmaster, Mr. Eliaser Olorunloju, was recently abducted near a Fulani settlement between Sasaro and Ayetoro along the Igarra–Uneme-Nekhua–Ibillo road in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area. His captors have reportedly demanded a ₦70 million ransom.

Similarly, a teenage girl identified as Blessing was rescued by operatives of the Edo State Security Corps, while Aisha Wahab, who was kidnapped in Auchi last Tuesday, regained her freedom on Friday.

Earlier this year, on March 28, 2025, an angry mob lynched seven travellers in Uromi, Edo Central, after they were suspected of involvement in kidnapping. Firearms were reportedly found in the truck transporting them northward, triggering the mob attack that left seven people dead.