Security operatives in Edo State have successfully rescued nine people who were kidnapped in separate incidents along the busy Benin–Lagos Expressway and nearby forest areas.
According to the police, the operation followed coordinated efforts involving intelligence gathering, aerial monitoring, and extensive search operations ordered by the state Commissioner of Police. These sustained efforts forced the kidnappers to release the victims.
Authorities confirmed that all those rescued were found alive. They have since received medical attention and have been reunited with their families.
In a related development, four additional victims who had earlier been abducted and held in a forest in Agenebode were also freed, bringing the total number of rescued persons to nine.
Police said security presence has been strengthened along the expressway and surrounding forest routes to prevent further attacks.
The rescue comes days after armed attackers ambushed a commercial bus along the highway, opening fire on the vehicle. The driver was killed during the incident, while several passengers were taken into the forest.
One injured passenger was earlier rescued and taken to the hospital, while others were held captive until the recent operation secured their freedom.
Authorities have assured residents and road users that measures are in place to improve safety along the route and curb criminal activities in the area.
