Benue State Police Command has successfully rescued 14 victims who were abducted from a Benue Links bus traveling from Makurdi to Otukpo on April 3. The armed kidnappers attacked the bus in the Otukpo Burnt Bricks area, leaving the driver and one passenger dead.
According to the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Sewuese Anene, the kidnappers shot the driver and one passenger, before whisking away the remaining 14 passengers to an undisclosed location. The injured were rushed to the hospital but were confirmed dead upon arrival.
In a joint effort with the State Civil Protection Guard, the police quickly initiated a search for the abductees in nearby forests. On April 4, a breakthrough came when officers encountered the bandits and engaged them in a gunfight. The superior firepower of the police forced the bandits to retreat, leaving their captives behind.
While the 14 victims were rescued, two had already sustained machete injuries. The survivors were immediately taken to the hospital, where one was later confirmed dead. The remaining victims are currently receiving medical treatment.
Benue State Police Commissioner, Mr. Steve Yabanet, extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and vowed to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice. He urged Otukpo residents to report any suspects with gunshot wounds, as several of the bandits were likely injured during the exchange of fire.
