Police Confirm kidnapping of 14 Passengers in Benue

By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the kidnapping of 14 passengers in the Okpokwu area.

The victims were traveling toward the South-West when armed bandits intercepted their vehicle on Monday evening.

The group was ambushed at approximately 7:00 p.m. shortly after departing the Igede axis. Two passengers were fatally shot during the attack, while the remaining survivors were forced into the surrounding forest by the gunmen.

This incident follows a separate weekend attack where nine worshippers were abducted from a church in Ado LGA.

These escalating crimes have prompted urgent calls for a stronger security presence in Benue’s vulnerable border communities.

Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, confirmed that a rescue operation is currently underway. Security personnel have intensified patrols along the Utonkon-Ojapo-Okpoga road to track the kidnappers and protect other commuters.

Addressing the incident, DSP Udeme Edet stated, “Concerning the abduction of passengers on the Okpokwu road, it is true that it happened. Investigation into the incident is ongoing, and we are on top of the situation.”

The state government is facing increased pressure to resolve the security crisis as highway attacks become more frequent. Many travelers are now avoiding night trips while families of the victims wait for news of their safe return.