All passengers abducted from a commercial bus in Benue State have been safely rescued, while seven suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident, according to the police.
Gatekeepers News reports that the victims were kidnapped on April 15, 2026, when gunmen attacked a Benue Links bus along the Makurdi–Otukpo road, an area that has witnessed repeated security challenges. The attackers reportedly intercepted the vehicle, robbed passengers, and took several of them into the bush.
The Benue State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, confirmed that all 18 abducted passengers have now regained their freedom following a joint security operation involving multiple agencies. He disclosed this while presenting some of the rescued victims to Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi.
According to the police, the rescue operation was driven by intelligence gathering and coordinated efforts on the ground. Authorities also confirmed the arrest of seven suspects linked to the abduction, describing the development as a major breakthrough in the investigation. The suspects are currently in custody as further inquiries continue.
Governor Hyacinth Alia commended the security operatives for their swift response and successful rescue mission. He revealed that some of the victims were young travellers, including individuals reportedly heading for examinations at the time of the attack.
The rescued passengers are expected to receive medical attention, while security agencies continue efforts to track down any remaining accomplices involved in the crime.
