The Benue State Police Command has arrested seven suspected militia herdsmen in connection with the abduction of passengers, including JAMB candidates, along the Makurdi–Otukpo highway.
Drivetvnews gathered that the victims, who were travelling in an 18-seater Benue Links bus to Otukpo for their examinations, have all been safely released.
The State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, disclosed this while presenting the rescued passengers to Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi. He explained that the operation was carried out through coordinated efforts by multiple security agencies.
According to him, five victims were initially freed, while the remaining 13 were rescued later, bringing the total number of recovered passengers to 18.
Emenari credited the success of the operation to increased pressure on the kidnappers, supported by the deployment of tactical teams by the Inspector-General of Police.
He revealed that eight suspects are currently in custody, with seven believed to be directly linked to the crime. Some of the rescued victims have reportedly identified the suspects.
The police also confirmed that ongoing operations are targeting criminal hideouts across the state, particularly in forested areas, in a bid to curb further attacks.
Governor Alia, while receiving the victims, expressed concern over the growing insecurity in the state but commended security agencies for ensuring the safe return of all those abducted.
He noted that among the victims were several candidates who were on their way to sit for their examinations and urged JAMB to consider rescheduling the exams for them.
The governor assured that the state government would provide support for the victims and directed health officials to conduct proper medical assessments.
He also called on residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing useful information, reiterating his administration’s commitment to tackling criminal activities in the state.
