The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of passengers from a Benue Links bus by gunmen along the Eke-Ugbokolo Road in Okpokwu Local Government Area on Sunday evening.
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Eyewitnesses reported that the bus, which was en route from Abeokuta, came under attack around 7 p.m. Armed men reportedly ambushed the vehicle, forced it to a stop, robbed the passengers of their belongings, and then led them into a nearby forest.
According to the police, the bus involved—a Toyota vehicle bearing registration number 14B-143BN was later discovered abandoned by the roadside in Ugbokolo.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edet Okon, said that after receiving a distress call, a joint operation involving police officers, military personnel, and members of the Benue State Community Volunteer Guards was launched. During the operation, one of the victims, identified as Paul Terns, was successfully rescued after managing to escape from the kidnappers.
Security operatives have since intensified search efforts in the area, with additional reinforcements deployed to ensure the safe rescue of the remaining abducted individuals.
The police have called for calm and encouraged residents to cooperate with ongoing investigations. Authorities say they are committed to securing the release of the victims and ensuring that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice.
