Thirteen Kidnapped Benue Links Passengers Regain Freedom

Thirteen Kidnapped Benue Links Passengers Regain Freedom
Local youths, security operatives pressured abductors, forcing victims’ release.
Victims undergoing medical checks, set to reunite with families soon.

Thirteen passengers of Benue Links Transport Company who were kidnapped last week at Eke in Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue State have regained their freedom. Their release followed a coordinated rescue operation by security operatives in collaboration with local vigilantes.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the Chairman of Okpokwu LGA, Adah Inalegwu, confirmed the successful rescue on Sunday in an interview with Channels Television. Inalegwu disclosed that the victims were freed in batches, with the first two passengers released on Saturday after security forces intensified search efforts across the dense forest areas.

He also revealed that local youths from neighbouring Kogi State joined the operation, increasing pressure on the abductors and contributing to the success of the mission. According to him, their combined efforts forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives.

Inalegwu commended the Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, for providing vital logistical support, which strengthened the rescue team’s surveillance, mobility, and tracking capabilities throughout the operation.

The freed passengers are currently undergoing profiling and medical examinations to ensure their health and safety before they are reunited with their families.

The abduction incident occurred last Sunday when suspected gunmen attacked a Benue Links commercial bus at Eke community along the Otukpo-Otukpa road at about 6:30 pm. The gunmen reportedly ambushed the bus, which was conveying passengers and bore the registration number 14B-143BN. The attackers robbed the passengers before forcefully taking several victims into the nearby forest, triggering panic in the community.

The coordinated security response and support from local vigilantes and Kogi State youths were instrumental in safely rescuing all thirteen passengers without casualties.