The Edo State Police Command said it has rescued eight victims, including children, out of the 14 passengers kidnapped on October 25, 2025, along the Benin–Akure Road, between Obarenren community and Odunwongie community.

The command’s Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, in a statement on Tuesday, said efforts were still on to locate and rescue the remaining passengers.

The statement read, “The Edo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that on 25th October, 2025, at about 17:00hrs, a distress call was received by the command while Ekiadolor Division operatives were swiftly deployed to the scene of the suspected kidnapping incident along the Benin–Akure Road, between Obarenren Community and Odunwongie Community.

“At the scene, it was revealed that at about 16:30hrs, gunshots were heard between a military checkpoint and the Anti-Kidnapping checkpoint in the area.

“A 14-seater Hummer Bus with registration number KJA 119 XF, driven by one Francis Okeke of Afuze, Owan East Local Government Area, had been attacked by armed men, while 15 passengers were taken into the nearby bush.

“Acting promptly, the operatives pursued the kidnappers into the forest and successfully rescued eight victims, including three children, unhurt.

“However, seven other passengers are still unaccounted for as efforts are ongoing to locate and rescue them.

“An aggressive manhunt for the perpetrators is currently in progress, with a full complement of technological support to ensure the safe return of the remaining victims, while the driver of the vehicle is assisting the police with investigation.

“The Edo State Police Command assures the public that no effort will be spared in ensuring the safety of all residents and commuters within the State.

“Members of the public are encouraged to remain calm, vigilant, and to promptly report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police formation.

“Anyone with useful information is encouraged to kindly contact our emergency Control Room Numbers
08077773721, 08037646272.”

In other news, the Guardian reported a few days ago that a 12-year-old girl, identified as Blessing, was rescued by operatives of the Edo State Security Corps five days after she was abducted.

Blessing was kidnapped at Ayogwiri and rescued at Agenebode, Etsako East Local Government Area of the state.

She was abducted by armed men suspected of being herders who attacked women returning from the farm.

Some of the suspected abductors were reportedly arrested.

A viral video showed moments when the teenager was rescued from the forest.

The victim narrated in the video that she spent five days with the kidnappers.

One of the vigilance members who joined the rescue operation, but pleaded anonymity, said the forest was combed before the victim was sighted.

He said the kidnappers fled after a shoot-out.

Edo Police spokesman Musa Yamu could not be reached for comments.