The Edo State Police Command has rescued at least 16 kidnapped victims in separate coordinated operations across the state.

In a statement, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, revealed that the victims were freed through joint efforts involving police operatives, vigilantes, and local hunters during operations along the Benin–Lagos and Benin–Akure highways.

According to Yamu, one of the victims sustained a gunshot wound during the attack but was rescued by concerned individuals and is currently receiving treatment.

The incident occurred on August 23, 2025, between 5:30 pm and 6 pm, when armed men blocked the highways and abducted several travellers. Acting on distress calls, the police swiftly mobilised operatives from the Iguobazuwa and Ekiadolor Divisions, supported by Tactical Teams, vigilantes, and hunters, to comb the surrounding bushes and pursue the kidnappers.

Yamu further noted that the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, personally led the operation along the Benin–Akure axis. To enhance precision, the police also deployed drones and other advanced technical resources, which played a crucial role in the rescue.

He explained that six victims were rescued along the Benin–Akure road, while three others were freed along the Benin–Lagos road. Additionally, seven other hostages from the Benin–Akure abduction regained their freedom on August 25, 2025.

The Commissioner of Police commended the bravery and professionalism of the operatives, as well as the significant contributions of vigilantes and local hunters. He stressed that the collaboration between security agencies and community structures is proving effective in combating violent crime.

Agbonika assured the public that efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining victims and apprehend the perpetrators. He reiterated the Command’s determination to ensure criminals find no safe haven in the state.

“We are committed to ridding our highways and communities of violent crime. All available human and technological resources will continue to be deployed to guarantee the safety of residents and travellers. The Edo State Police Command remains resolute in protecting lives and property and urges members of the public to maintain trust and support as we work together to secure our communities,” he stated.

Recall that on August 23, gunmen suspected to be kidnappers attacked passengers in an 18-seater bus along the Sobe–Benin road in Owan West Local Government Area, abducting several occupants, including students. A social media influencer, popularly known as Verydarkman (VDM), was said to have rescued the bus driver, who had been shot, and rushed him to the hospital for treatment.