At least 12 individuals, including the driver of a Benue Links bus, have been abducted by armed men along the Ugbokolo-Otukpo Road in Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue State. The incident occurred on Sunday evening around 6:30 p.m. near the Eke community.
Details of the Attack
According to initial reports:
- The bus, owned by Benue Links Nigeria Limited, was traveling from Abeokuta, Ogun State, to Makurdi.
- Upon reaching Eke Elengbecho, the vehicle was ambushed by armed kidnappers.
- The assailants robbed the passengers and marched them into a nearby forest.
- The bus was later found abandoned by the roadside, with some luggage left behind.
Official Confirmation
Benue Links, in a statement signed by Information Officer Johnson Ehi, described the attack as deeply unfortunate. The company confirmed:
- The bus carried 12 passengers and a driver.
- One passenger managed to escape and reported the incident to police in Eke.
- The company is working with security agencies to ensure the safe return of those abducted.
“We strongly condemn the attack… and assure the public that we are actively collaborating with security agencies,” the company stated.
Police Response
The Benue State Police Command also confirmed the attack in a statement by Public Relations Officer SP Udeme Edet:
- A joint operation involving the police, military, and Benue State Civil Protection Guard was launched.
- One passenger, Paul Terns, was rescued during a search operation.
- Efforts are ongoing to locate and rescue the remaining victims.
“Additional reinforcements have been deployed to the area to continue the search and ensure the safety of the abducted passengers,” the police added.
Ongoing Security Concerns
This latest incident adds to a series of troubling security developments in Benue State, particularly in transit routes, underscoring the persistent threat posed by armed banditry and kidnappings across Nigeria’s Middle Belt.
Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, as joint security teams intensify efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.
