Five passengers abducted by suspected kidnappers along the Ankpechi–Omutele axis of Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State have been rescued by security operatives.
The victims were travelling in a passenger bus from Enugu to Abuja when they were intercepted by suspected kidnappers on the night of August 13, 2026.
The Benue State Police Command said it immediately mobilised security personnel and launched a coordinated operation following the incident.
According to the command’s spokesperson, DSP Aondongu Orchia, the operation led to a gun battle with the suspected kidnappers, during which five of the 14 abducted passengers were successfully freed.
Among those rescued was a four-year-old boy.
However, nine passengers remain in the custody of the suspected kidnappers as security operatives continue efforts to locate and rescue them.
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One of the rescued victims sustained a gunshot injury during the confrontation and was taken to a medical facility in Otukpo for treatment.
The Commissioner of Police in Benue State, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, assured the victims’ families that the command was working with other security agencies to secure the release of those still being held.
He urged residents of affected communities to remain calm and vigilant while providing credible information that could assist security agencies in their ongoing operations.
The police said further updates would be provided as the rescue operation progresses.
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