By Winnie Onu, Makurdi
The Police in Benue State have arrested seven suspects and rescued additional victims in a late-night breakthrough following the abduction of passengers from a Benue Links bus along the Makurdi–Otukpo road.
The arrests, announced at about 9:45pm on Friday, mark the latest development in the ongoing search-and-rescue operation after the Wednesday night attack at the Ikobi axis near Otukpo.
In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, said the suspects were apprehended during a coordinated joint operation involving the police and other security agencies.
She disclosed that operatives carried out a targeted mission in Amla Forest and adjoining areas, leading to the rescue of some of the abducted victims, who are currently receiving medical attention.
According to the statement, actionable intelligence gathered during the operation led to the arrest of the seven suspects, who are now in police custody as investigations continue.
The Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Enemari, said security operations had been intensified to secure the release of those still held captive and restore normalcy in the area.
Earlier, the police had confirmed that the bus was conveying 18 passengers, including the driver, when it was attacked. While three passengers were not taken, 15 were initially abducted.
One victim later escaped, and another was rescued on Friday morning, bringing the number of those freed to five, with 13 still believed to be in captivity.
Enemari, who visited Otukpo on Thursday to coordinate operations, said multiple tactical teams, including the Inspector-General of Police Intelligence Response Team and anti-kidnapping units, had been deployed to the area.
“We are on top of the situation. Our men are working round the clock to ensure that all the victims are rescued,” he said.
He clarified that contrary to earlier reports, not all the victims were candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), noting that passengers were picked along the route.
The police boss assured residents that efforts would continue until all victims are freed and those responsible for the attack are brought to justice.
