The Edo State Government has strongly denounced the reported kidnapping incident that occurred around the Vegetable Market axis along Airport Road in Benin City.
Governor Monday Okpebholo described the development as disturbing and unacceptable, calling it a direct assault on innocent residents of the state.
In a statement issued on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr Patrick Ebojele, the governor said the incident, which took place on Sunday, had prompted immediate government attention.
He directed the Commissioner of Police in the state, Monday Agbonika, to launch an urgent and coordinated investigation aimed at rescuing the victims and apprehending those behind the attack.
Okpebholo warned that the government would not tolerate any action capable of undermining public peace or threatening the safety of residents.
He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies, stressing that timely information was crucial to ongoing security efforts.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to security, the governor assured that efforts would continue until those responsible are tracked down and brought to justice, while public safety across Edo State is fully restored.