The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of seven suspected militia herdsmen linked to the abduction of passengers from an 18-seater Benue Links bus along the Makurdi–Otukpo road last Wednesday.
The kidnapped passengers, which included candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB, heading to Otukpo for their examinations, have all been successfully rescued.
While briefing Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi during the presentation of the freed victims, the Commissioner of Police, Mr Ifeanyi Emenari, said the release was achieved through a coordinated effort of multiple security agencies.
According to him, five of the abducted passengers were initially freed, while the remaining 13 were rescued on Sunday morning.
“With the earlier release of five occupants of the vehicle, the remaining 13 were rescued this, Sunday, morning unhurt,” Emenari stated.
He credited the success of the operation to the backing of Governor Alia and the Inspector-General of Police, noting that the deployment of the IGP tactical team increased pressure on the kidnappers.
“That is why we were able to mount pressure on the bandits to ensure the victims’ safe return,” he added.
The police boss further disclosed that eight suspects are currently in custody, out of which seven are believed to be directly involved in the kidnapping.
“We already have eight suspects in our custody, and out of this number, seven are suspected herdsmen bandits connected with the crime. Some of the victims have been able to identify them,” he said.
He also revealed that security forces have begun special clearance operations across the state to dislodge criminal groups hiding in forest areas, in line with directives from both the Inspector-General of Police and the state government.
Receiving the rescued passengers, Governor Hyacinth Alia expressed worry over the increasing cases of kidnapping in the state but appreciated the safe recovery of all 18 victims.
He noted, “Among the victims are eight young people who were heading to Otukpo to write their examinations. On the whole, 18 persons were kidnapped, and I am happy to hear that they have all returned safely. I am also pleased that seven suspected herdsmen bandits have been arrested over the incident.”
The governor urged the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB, to consider fixing another date for the affected candidates so they can sit for their exams.
He assured that the state government remains committed to supporting the victims and maintaining a strict stance against criminal activities.
Governor Alia also called on residents to assist security agencies with credible information and directed the Commissioner for Health and Human Services to ensure proper medical checks for all rescued persons.
He further promised that the government would roll out support measures for the affected passengers.
