Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has ordered a probe into the kidnapping incident at the Vegetable Market area of Airport Road in Benin City.
The governor condemned the attack, describing it as unacceptable and a direct assault on innocent residents.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, on Monday, Okpebholo said the incident represents a serious threat to public safety and community peace in the state.
The governor directed the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, to immediately commence a coordinated investigation aimed at rescuing the victims and apprehending those responsible.
“This government will not tolerate any act that threatens public safety and security or disturbs the peace of the state,” he said.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies, stressing that timely information is critical to ongoing operations.
“We will not relent until those responsible are apprehended and made to face the full weight of the law,” Okpebholo added.