The Edo State Police Command has launched an intensive rescue operation following an attack on a commercial bus along the Lagos–Benin Expressway, which left one person dead and three others abducted.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said the incident occurred on April 18 at about 6:00 p.m. within the Iguobazuwa axis of the Ore–Benin corridor.

According to the command, the bus, belonging to GUO Transport Company and bearing registration number FA 280 YJ, was conveying 6 passengers when it was ambushed by armed men suspected to be kidnappers.

The police disclosed that one female passenger who suffered gunshot wounds during the attack was rescued by operatives and taken to hospital, where she is currently responding to treatment. However, three other passengers were abducted by the assailants and taken into a nearby forest.

Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Monday Agbonika, ordered what the command described as a “coordinated and rigorous” rescue operation across the affected axis and adjoining forest areas.

“All divisions along the Ore–Benin axis and boundary forests have been directed to embark on an intensive search and rescue mission, led by their respective Area Commanders,” the statement added.

The command also deployed operatives from its Anti-Kidnapping Unit to reinforce ongoing operations, working in collaboration with local hunters and vigilante groups to comb the forests for the victims and suspects.

Police said the body of the deceased driver has been deposited at a hospital mortuary, while the attacked vehicle has been recovered.

The command assured the public of its commitment to securing the safe release of the abducted passengers and bringing those responsible to justice, urging residents to provide credible information that could assist ongoing operations.