Suspected kidnappers have again struck along the Benin–Ore Expressway, intensifying concerns over the persistent insecurity on the busy highway linking the South-East and South-West regions.
According to reports from survivors, the latest incident involved a commercial vehicle operated by Ibom Express, which was traveling from Onitsha in when it came under attack. The assailants reportedly opened fire on the moving bus, hitting the driver from the side. The driver subsequently lost control, causing the vehicle to veer off the road into a ditch.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the attackers immediately pursued the crashed vehicle into the surrounding forest. In the chaos that followed, some passengers managed to escape into nearby bushes, while others—both injured and uninjured—were abducted and taken away by the gunmen.
The incident comes barely a week after a similar attack involving a G.U.O Transport vehicle on the same Benin–Ore axis, raising alarm over what appears to be a recurring pattern of violent ambushes targeting commercial transport operators.
Survivors allege that the attackers are adopting a new tactic: shooting at drivers of moving vehicles to force them to lose control, making it easier to intercept and abduct passengers. In some cases, the gunmen reportedly continue to trail vehicles until the driver is incapacitated or forced to stop.
The Benin–Ore Expressway, a critical route connecting major economic hubs, has in recent times become notorious for kidnappings and armed attacks, with commuters frequently calling for stronger security presence and intervention.
Transport operators and stakeholders have expressed growing frustration over the repeated incidents, warning that continued attacks could disrupt travel and economic activities if urgent measures are not taken to guarantee safety on the highway.
