The Edo State Police Command have confirmed the killing of a young man identified as Christopher by suspected kidnappers in Auchi, near Igbira Camp, while his female companion was abducted during the attack.

The incident occurred when they were intercepted by armed men believed to be kidnappers while returning home.

This is coming as the police also disclosed that security operatives have commenced bush combing operations to rescue passengers kidnapped near Ore along the Benin–Ore–Lagos highway, where the driver of a commercial bus was shot dead.

Speaking with journalists on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said eyewitnesses reported that the suspected kidnappers were dressed in military uniforms.

“I am not saying they are soldiers, but eyewitnesses said the attackers wore army camouflage. The young man was shot and later rushed to a health facility, where he was confirmed dead. Efforts are in top gear to apprehend the suspects and rescue the abducted lady,” she said.

On the Benin–Ore–Lagos highway incident, Ikoedem disclosed that only one victim, a woman who sustained gunshot injuries, had been rescued so far.

“Apart from the woman who was rescued with gunshot injuries, no other person has been rescued yet. However, we are closing in on the suspects. I cannot disclose everything being done due to security implications,” she added.

The police assured the public that ongoing operations are aimed at rescuing the remaining victims and bringing the perpetrators to justice.