Police Rescue 13 Abducted Passengers in Benue After Eight Days in Captivity

The Benue State Police Command has rescued 13 passengers who were abducted along the Ankpechi–Omutele axis of Ohimini Local Government Area after spending eight days in captivity.

The victims were among passengers travelling in an 18-seater commercial bus from Enugu State to Abuja when armed kidnappers intercepted the vehicle on August 13, 2026. Security agencies had earlier rescued some of the passengers while intensifying efforts to locate the remaining victims.

The latest rescue operation was carried out by a joint team of security operatives and local security personnel following sustained search and intelligence-gathering efforts. The victims were successfully freed during a night operation at Amla-Cho Forest in Otukpo Local Government Area.

According to police authorities, operatives encountered the kidnappers during the mission, leading to a fierce gun battle. One suspect was neutralised, while an AK-47 rifle and several rounds of live ammunition were recovered from the scene. Other members of the gang reportedly fled into the forest.

The rescued passengers were found unharmed and immediately taken for medical evaluation before being transported to their destinations.

Security agencies have launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects, with ongoing intelligence-led operations aimed at bringing those responsible to justice.

Police authorities praised the bravery and resilience of personnel involved in the operation and reaffirmed their commitment to combating kidnapping and other criminal activities across the state.

Residents have also been encouraged to remain vigilant and provide useful information that could assist security agencies in preventing future attacks and apprehending criminal elements operating within the area.