Police Foil Kidnap Attempt On Benin–Abraka Road, Rescue Passengers After Gun Battle

As security agencies intensify efforts to curb kidnapping and violent crimes on major highways, operatives of the Edo State Police Command have foiled an attempted abduction along the Benin-Abraka Road, rescuing passengers of a commercial bus after a gun battle with suspected kidnappers.

The incident occurred on June 21, 2026 near the NNPC Pipeline axis, a section of the road reportedly affected by poor road conditions.

According to the police, the armed men intercepted a commercial vehicle belonging to Muyi Line Transport Company, with registration number BEN 730 YE, while it was travelling from Abraka in Delta State to Benin City.

The Edo State Police Command said the attackers emerged from the bush and opened fire on the vehicle, forcing the driver to stop.

A distress report was subsequently received by officers attached to the Ugo Police Division at about 6:46 p.m, prompting an immediate response.

Police operatives swiftly mobilised to the scene and confronted the armed men.

During the ensuing exchange of gunfire, the suspects reportedly fled into the surrounding forest after encountering what police described as superior tactical resistance.

“The armed suspects reportedly fired at the vehicle and forced the driver to stop. Upon receiving the distress call, operatives of Ugo Division swiftly mobilised to the scene and engaged the hoodlums in a gun duel,” the command said.

Police confirmed that all occupants of the bus were rescued without being abducted.

However, one passenger, identified as Isaac Olotu Temitope from Ado-Ekiti in Ekiti State, sustained a pellet injury to his right toe during the attack. The victim was immediately taken to the Ugo Health Centre for treatment. According to the police, he received medical attention and was later discharged to continue his journey.

Following the operation, the Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Monday Agbonika, ordered the deployment of reinforcement teams from the state command headquarters to support ongoing efforts to apprehend the fleeing suspects.

The command said security operatives have intensified search operations in the area and are pursuing intelligence leads aimed at identifying and arresting those responsible.

Commending the officers involved in the rescue operation, the commissioner praised their swift response and professionalism in preventing what could have resulted in a mass abduction.

He also reassured residents and travellers of the command’s commitment to securing major highways and protecting lives and property across the state.

The police urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or other security agencies.

The Benin-Abraka Road has witnessed occasional security concerns in recent years, prompting repeated calls for increased patrols and intelligence-driven operations along the corridor.