Monday April 20, 2026
www.thenewsdesk.ng
Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have rescued all passengers abducted during the recent kidnapping incident involving a Benue Links bus in Otukpo, Benue State.
The victims were taken hostage on April 15, 2026, along the Otukpo axis, sparking widespread concern over the safety of commuters in the area. However, in a coordinated operation based on credible intelligence, officers of the Benue State Police Command carried out clearance raids across the Amla Forest corridor and surrounding locations, leading to the successful rescue of the remaining victims.
Police authorities confirmed that 13 additional victims were freed during the operation, including eight students who were travelling to Otukpo to sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). With the latest rescue, all 18 passengers initially abducted have now been accounted for.
According to the police, all rescued individuals have undergone medical checks and are in stable condition. They are expected to be reunited with their families after undergoing standard debriefing procedures.
The operation also led to the arrest of seven suspects, three of whom have been identified as key members of the kidnapping syndicate. Security agencies say efforts are ongoing to track down other accomplices and dismantle the wider criminal network linked to the attack. The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing interrogation.
Reacting to the development, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, commended officers of the Benue State Command for their professionalism and bravery in securing the release of the victims. He further directed intensified security operations across the Otukpo area to prevent future incidents.
The police leadership reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the country, assuring Nigerians that ongoing operations would be sustained to strengthen security and restore public confidence. Citizens were also urged to support law enforcement agencies with timely and credible information to enhance collective safety.
*Swift Reporters
