…Victims abducted from 3 Sienna buses near Ogbere, freed less than 24 hours later_
The Nigeria Police Force says it has rescued five kidnapped passengers in a joint operation along the Benin-Ore-Sagamu Expressway, less than 24 hours after their abduction.
The victims were freed on Friday, June 27, 2026, following a gun duel with their abductors, according to a police statement.
The victims were kidnapped on Thursday while traveling from Benin to Ibadan and Lagos.
According to those rescued, passengers in three Sienna buses were intercepted near Ogbere and taken into a forest along the expressway by armed men.
A joint task force comprising operatives from the Ogun and Lagos State Police Commands tracked the kidnappers to their hideout near Ogbere.
Police said the rescue was carried out after a shootout with the abductors. All five victims were recovered unhurt and have been handed over for medical checks and reunification with their families.
The police did not confirm if any arrests were made or if the suspects were injured during the gun duel. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang.
