Vigilant youths in Ugbokolo, located in Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue State, have successfully foiled a suspected kidnapping operation along the Ugbokolo–Aokpe road, rescuing multiple victims and apprehending three individuals linked to the incident.
The operation reportedly took place late Wednesday night after reports surfaced that armed men had abducted several travellers along the route. In response, concerned youths in the community swiftly mobilised and launched a coordinated search effort.
A local resident, identified as Adah, disclosed that the youths tracked down the suspects, leading to the rescue of five victims. During the operation, three suspects were arrested, while another managed to escape.
The rescued individuals have since been reunited with their families, while the detained suspects were handed over to security authorities for further investigation.
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Confirming the development, the Chairman of Okpokwu Local Government Area, Adah Inalegwu, acknowledged the incident but noted that authorities are still verifying the identities and involvement of the suspects.
“It is true that some travellers were kidnapped on Wednesday night along Aokpe road. Our youths responded swiftly and pursued the attackers. Under pressure, the kidnappers abandoned their victims and fled,” he stated.
He further added that the three individuals apprehended were considered suspicious by members of the community, but investigations are ongoing to ascertain their connection to the crime.
Meanwhile, the Benue State Police Command disclosed that it had yet to receive an official report regarding the incident at the time of filing this report.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates as investigations continue.
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