Camry along the Owan–Auchi Road have reportedly demanded the sum of N15 million ransom for each of the victims still in captivity.
The incident occurred on September 5, 2025, when the gunmen intercepted the vehicles and whisked away several passengers into the bush.
One of the victims still being held is Gloria Ikhaghu, who was returning home after the burial rites of her late father in the Okpekpe community in Etsako East Local Government Area of the state.
A family member of Ikhaghu, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, confirmed that her abductors had contacted them to demand ransom.
“We are begging Governor Monday Okpebholo and everyone to assist in the safe return of Gloria, as we don’t have such money,” the family source said, according to Daily Trust.
“We just finished her father’s burial, and raising N15 million is impossible.”
When contacted, the Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command, CSP Moses Yamu, said, “I am not aware of the ransom demand, but I can tell you that our men are still combing the bush to rescue the victims.”
The Owan–Auchi axis of Edo State has long been notorious for kidnappings and armed attacks.
In recent years, both travellers and local residents have been frequent targets of gunmen who take advantage of the forested terrain.
The latest incident has renewed calls for improved security along highways in Edo State, particularly as the state grapples with a surge in abductions.
In 2023 and 2024, several kidnappings along the Benin–Auchi and Benin–Ekpoma roads sparked protests from residents of the state who accused security agencies of not doing enough to protect travellers.
