Police Rescue 14 Abducted Passengers In Benue, Three Confirmed Dead After Attack

In a recent security operation, the Benue State Police Command successfully rescued 14 individuals who were abducted by gunmen along the Makurdi-Otukpo highway. The victims were passengers on a Benue Links transport bus when the ambush occurred.

The incident happened on April 3, 2025, around 8:30 PM near the Otukpo Burnt Bricks area. According to a statement released by CSP Catherine Anene, spokesperson for the Benue Police Command, the kidnappers opened fire on the vehicle, critically injuring the bus driver and a front-seat passenger, forcing the vehicle to a halt. Tragically, both victims succumbed to their injuries at the hospital.

Working swiftly, the police, in collaboration with the Benue State Community Volunteer Guards, mobilized to the scene. They immediately launched a manhunt into the nearby forest where the assailants had taken the abducted passengers.

On April 4, 2025, around 3:00 PM, the security team encountered the kidnappers and engaged them in a fierce gun battle. Outgunned, the attackers fled the scene, abandoning their captives. Although two victims had sustained machete wounds, they were successfully rescued alongside others. Sadly, one of the rescued passengers later died in the hospital, bringing the death toll to three.

CP Steve Yabanet, Commissioner of Police in Benue State, extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and reaffirmed the Command’s dedication to arresting the perpetrators. He urged residents of Otukpo and neighboring areas to report any individuals with gunshot wounds, as several of the kidnappers were injured during the confrontation.

For more on how Nigerian authorities are tackling kidnapping and insecurity, read this detailed report by The Guardian Nigeria.

You can also read our latest report on how Nigerian security forces are improving rural patrol and response times.