- Military Foils Kidnapping Attempt on Benue Links Bus
- Soldiers received intelligence that an 18-seater Benue Links vehicle with registration number TYK 221 YK had been hijacked by suspected kidnappers
- One mobile phone suspected to belong to the attackers was recovered at the scene
Troops under Operation Whirl Stroke have rescued three passengers after successfully disrupting a kidnapping attempt involving a Benue State government-owned Benue Links bus along the Enugu–Otukpo highway.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the military confirmed the incident in a statement on Thursday, explaining that the attack occurred on Wednesday night.
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According to Ahmad Zubairu, Acting Media Information Officer at the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force, soldiers received intelligence that an 18-seater Benue Links vehicle with registration number TYK 221 YK had been hijacked by suspected kidnappers.
He stated that troops from Sector 1 immediately mobilised after receiving the alert and moved to the scene from their Forward Operation Base in Otukpo.
“The prompt response of the troops forced the criminals to abandon three of the victims. No direct contact was made during the pursuit,” Zubairu said.
The bus was reportedly carrying four passengers and a minor when it was attacked. While three of the victims were rescued, authorities have not yet disclosed the status of the remaining passenger and the child.
One mobile phone suspected to belong to the attackers was recovered at the scene.
The Enugu–Otukpo corridor has experienced repeated security incidents in recent years, prompting intensified patrols by security agencies. Operation Whirl Stroke, a joint military task force operating in parts of the North-Central region, continues routine and intelligence-driven operations aimed at curbing kidnappings and other violent crimes.
Commending the troops, the Force Commander praised their professionalism and rapid response, which prevented the situation from escalating further.
He also advised motorists to remain vigilant, particularly during night travel, urging them to report any suspicious activity to the nearest security formation to enable swift intervention.
Security authorities have consistently encouraged residents to provide timely and credible information to assist ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and other criminal activities across the state.
