This was confirmed in a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, noting that the operations followed separate incidents on August 23, 2025, when armed kidnappers blocked sections of the highways and abducted the travellers.

According to the Moses, distress calls prompted the swift response and mobilization of operatives from the Iguobazuwa and Ekiadolor Divisions, backed by tactical teams, local vigilantes, and hunters. The teams embarked on intensive bush-combing operations to track the abductors and free the victims.

The Commissioner of Police of the state, Monday Agbonika, personally led the operation along the Benin–Akure axis, deploying drones and other technical support to enhance precision.

“Six victims were rescued along the Benin–Akure Road, including one with a gunshot injury who is now receiving treatment. Three more victims were freed on the Benin–Lagos Road, while an additional seven regained their freedom on August 25,” the statement added.

Agbonika commended the operatives, vigilantes, and local hunters for their collaboration, stressing that the partnership between security agencies and communities remains vital in tackling violent crime.

He assured the public that efforts are ongoing to rescue remaining victims and apprehend the perpetrators, adding that the command would continue to deploy human and technological measures to secure Edo highways.

Source: Punch