- Relief as Police Force Frees 18 Abducted Travellers in Benue
- Nab 7 Suspects
- Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, commended the officers involved, describing their actions as professional and courageous
The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the rescue of all 18 passengers abducted from a Benue Links bus in Otukpo, bringing an end to days of anxiety following the April 15 incident.
Eko Hot Blog reports that Police operatives from the Benue State Command carried out a series of intelligence-led operations across the Amla Forest corridor and nearby communities, areas believed to serve as hideouts for criminal gangs.
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Authorities had earlier secured the release of five victims shortly after the abduction, while the remaining 13 were rescued in the latest operation, completing the recovery of all passengers.
Among those freed are eight students who were on their way to sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, a development that had heightened public concern.
Force spokesperson Anthony Placid said the victims have received medical attention and are in stable condition, adding that they will be reunited with their families after standard debriefing.
The operation also led to the arrest of seven suspects, with three already identified as members of the kidnapping syndicate.
Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, commended the officers involved, describing their actions as professional and courageous.
He further directed increased security deployment in the Otukpo area to prevent future attacks and reassure residents.
While the successful rescue has been widely welcomed, the incident has again drawn attention to persistent security challenges along major transit routes.
Police urged the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, stressing that community cooperation remains vital in tackling crime.
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