BENIN CITY: The Edo State Police Command has rescued 16 kidnap victims following a series of coordinated operations along the Benin–Lagos and Benin–Akure highways.
Police spokesperson, Moses Yamu, confirmed the development in a statement on Wednesday, explaining that the rescue missions were launched after armed kidnappers attacked sections of the highways on August 23, 2025, abducting several travellers.
Responding to distress calls, operatives from the Iguobazuwa and Ekiadolor Divisions, supported by tactical units, local vigilantes, and hunters, embarked on intense bush-combing operations to track the abductors and free their victims.
The Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, personally led the operation along the Benin–Akure axis, deploying drones and other technological support to improve precision and speed.
Six victims were rescued on the Benin–Akure Road, including one with a gunshot injury now receiving treatment. Three more regained freedom on the Benin–Lagos Road, while another seven were rescued on August 25, the statement read.
Agbonika commended the joint efforts of security operatives, vigilantes, and local hunters, stressing that community collaboration remains critical in combating violent crime. He assured residents that operations are ongoing to rescue remaining victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The commissioner further pledged that the command would continue to deploy both human intelligence and advanced technology to safeguard Edo highways and ensure public safety.
