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By Lawrence Agbo
The Edo State Police Command has intensified search-and-rescue operations for passengers kidnapped during a deadly attack on a commercial bus along the Lagos–Benin Expressway.
Police spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, said a coordinated operation has been launched across the Ore–Benin axis and adjoining forest areas to secure the release of the victims and apprehend the attackers.
“A coordinated rescue effort across the Ore–Benin axis and adjoining forest areas,” Ikoedem said.
He explained that the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, ordered area commanders to intensify patrols and lead ground operations within their jurisdictions.
According to him, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit have also been deployed from the state headquarters to reinforce ongoing rescue efforts, alongside police tactical teams working with local hunters and vigilante groups.
“Area Commanders have been directed to lead intensified search operations within their jurisdictions.”
“Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit from the State Headquarters have also been deployed to reinforce the ongoing operation.
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“Police tactical teams, working in collaboration with local hunters and vigilante groups, are combing the forests to secure the release of the victims and apprehend those responsible,” the command’s spokesman said in a statement.
The attack occurred on Saturday at about 6:00 p.m. within the Iguobazuwa axis, when armed assailants reportedly opened fire on a commercial bus travelling from Lagos to the eastern part of Nigeria.
The driver was killed on the spot, while a female passenger who sustained gunshot injuries was rescued and is currently receiving treatment in a hospital, where she is said to be in stable condition.
Police confirmed that three other passengers were abducted and taken into a nearby forest by the attackers, while efforts continue to track their whereabouts.
“A female passenger who sustained gunshot injuries was rescued by responding officers and taken to a hospital, where she is currently receiving treatment and said to be in stable condition,” he said.
“The Command confirmed that three other passengers were abducted and taken into a nearby forest by the assailants.”
Authorities assured residents that all necessary resources are being deployed to ensure the safe rescue of the kidnapped victims and the arrest of those responsible for the attack.
