The Edo State Police Command has begun a manhunt after armed kidnappers attacked a commercial bus on Saturday, leaving the driver wounded and abducting 13 passengers.
The incident, which occurred around 4 p.m., was captured live on video by social activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM). According to reports, the attackers shot the bus driver before forcing passengers into the surrounding forest.
Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonikan, confirmed the incident in a telephone interview. He disclosed that the injured driver was rescued and is now responding to treatment. Agbonikan praised VDM and his team for their quick intervention, stressing that their decision to rush the driver to the hospital was crucial to saving his life.
“We have already taken steps to ensure those kidnapped are rescued and the suspects apprehended. We have deployed operatives and technology. Our teams are combing the areas as I speak to you,” Agbonikan said.
VDM, who witnessed the attack, narrated that soldiers stationed at a nearby checkpoint did not immediately confront the kidnappers. He explained that, alongside a policeman and other individuals in his entourage, he moved forward to engage the situation. VDM also flagged down a patrol vehicle traveling on the same road and urged them to pursue the assailants.
The police command has assured the public that efforts are ongoing to rescue the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.
