Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have launched an operation to rescue the abducted passengers of GUO Transport Company, who were abducted along the Lagos–Benin Express road.

It was gathered that the bus travelling to South-East Nigeria was attacked by gunmen on April 18, 2026.

The spokesperson for the command, ASP Eno Ikoedem, who disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, April 21, also confirm the killing of the driver during the attack.

According to the PPRO, one female passenger sustained gunshot injuries during the attack and was rushed to the hospital, where she is receiving treatment.

She further confirmed that three other passengers were abducted by the assailants.

Ikoedem added that tactical teams, in collaboration with local hunters and vigilantes, are currently combing the area to ensure the safe rescue of the kidnapped victims and the apprehension of the perpetrators.

"The Edo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of a tragic incident that occurred on 18th April, 2026 at about 1800hrs along the Lagos–Benin Express Road within the Iguobazuwa axis,” the statement read.

"Preliminary reports indicate that a commercial bus belonging to GUO Transport Company, with registration number FA 280 YJ, conveying five (5) persons, was attacked by unknown armed men suspected to be kidnappers.

"During the attack, the driver was shot and fatally injured.

"Following swift police response, one female passenger who sustained gunshot injuries was rescued and immediately rushed to the hospital, where she is receiving treatment and responding positively.

"The Command further confirms that three (3) other passengers were abducted by the assailants and taken into the nearby forest.

"In response, the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, has ordered a coordinated and rigorous rescue operation.

"All Divisions along the Ore–Benin axis and boundary forests have been directed to embark on an intensive search and rescue mission, to be led by their respective Area Commanders.

"Additionally, operatives from the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit at the State Headquarters have been deployed to reinforce ongoing operations in the forests.

"Tactical teams, in collaboration with local hunters and vigilantes, are currently combing the area to ensure the safe rescue of the kidnapped victims and the apprehension of the perpetrators.

"The corpse of the deceased driver upon confirmed d3ad has been deposited at the hospital mortuary, while the vehicle has been recovered.

"The Command assures the public that it remains resolute and will not relent until the victims are safely rescued and the criminals brought to justice.

“Members of the public are urged to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely information that could aid ongoing Operations.”