Chris Nehikhare, Edo state commissioner for communication and orientation, says 32 intending passengers were kidnapped at the train station in Igueben, on Saturday.

Speaking with journalists on Sunday, Nehikhare said although 32 passengers were initially abducted, one passenger managed to escape.

He added that the police have arrested one of the suspects and investigations are currently ongoing.

“The kidnap is the most difficult occurrence in the state currently. Few armed men who came with vehicles at about 4pm started shooting sporadically at the Igueben train station,” he said.

“Kidnapping 32 while many others were injured. They came with cars but took their victims into the bush on foot.

“The police in collaboration with the vigilante and hunters started combing the bush almost immediately. One suspect has been arrested and he is helping the police in their investigation.

“The deputy governor, Philip Shaibu, visited the scene of the crime this morning to have an on-the-spot assessment of what has happened.

“We are pleased to say that one suspect has been arrested. We congratulate the police and the Edo security network for the swiftness which they attended to the security breech.

“We sympathise with the families of the victims and hope that this is the last we will have such daring people invading government infrastructure.”

The Cable