Two innocent commuters lost their lives after bandits attacked travelers along the Fugar-Agenebode road in Etsako East, Edo State on July 11. However, in a quick response, the Nigeria Police and local security forces were able to rescue 14 kidnapped victims during a joint operation.

According to Force PRO, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the attackers ambushed several commuters, prompting immediate action from the police.

 The search led officers to Obe Hill, near Ajaokuta, where they engaged the bandits in a gunfight. The criminals fled the scene with gunshot wounds, and 14 hostages were safely rescued.

Adejobi said efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects and bring them to justice.

In a related incident, on July 12, kidnappers struck again—this time in Taraba State, along the Wukari highway, not far from the Federal University Wukari. A white Toyota bus carrying 17 passengers on their way to Yola, Adamawa State, was hijacked by armed men.

Fortunately, the police acted fast. Working with other security agencies, they stormed the area. The kidnappers, sensing trouble, abandoned the victims and fled into the bush.

All 17 hostages were rescued unharmed, bringing the total number of rescued victims to 31 across the two operations.

While the recent successes show progress, the Police assured Nigerians that the search for the criminals continues and no effort will be spared in restoring safety on highways.