In Edo State, three armed individuals wearing fake vigilante uniforms waylaid travelers and forced several people into the nearby forest. ASP Eno Ikoedem, spokesperson for the Edo State Police Command, confirmed the incident happened on July 30, 2026, near 10:40 pm at the Ugbogun section of the Lagos-Benin Expressway, situated before a military checkpoint.
The attackers obstructed the road using logs and foliage to trap unsuspecting motorists. Once notified, the Divisional Police Officer from Okada led a collaborative response team consisting of police officers, local hunters, and members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria.
Authorities deployed drone technology and conducted an intensive search of the surrounding area. The intense pressure applied by the security forces compelled the kidnappers to abandon their hostages and escape. Four victims, identified as Muritala Babatunde, Bello Aminat, Otor Prince, and Yeiyah Gift, were saved without injuries and have returned to their families. The police command officially recognized the professional cooperation and courage displayed by all security units during the rescue.
