There was tension in Benue State on Sunday evening as unknown gunmen attacked a Benue Links bus and kidnapped its passengers along the Eke axis of Okpokwu Local Government Area.
The incident happened around 6:30 p.m. on June 22, 2025. According to eyewitnesses, the bus with registration number 14B-143BN was stopped by armed men who robbed all the passengers of their valuables before forcing them into the nearby bush.
The vehicle was said to be on a routine passenger trip when the attack occurred.
Comrade Austin Agada, who was passing by shortly after the incident, quickly alerted security forces. Soldiers and policemen responded and moved to the scene to begin rescue efforts. Agada also mobilised local youth and vigilante groups from nearby villages to help search the surrounding bushes.
Officials of Benue Links were notified, and they are working with security personnel to coordinate efforts aimed at rescuing the victims.
As of press time, the number of kidnapped persons remains unclear, and no group has claimed responsibility. The area has been facing security challenges in recent times, with rising cases of kidnappings and armed robbery.
Residents are calling on the state government and security agencies to increase patrols and protect lives along the Okpokwu-Eke route.
