The Benue State Police Command has rescued 11 passengers who were kidnapped from a Benue Links bus on June 22, 2025. One of the suspects involved in the abduction has also been arrested.
According to a statement by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, the rescue operation was carried out by a combined team from the Inspector-General of Police Special Intervention Squad (IGP-SIS), the state police tactical teams, the military, and other security agencies.
The team, acting on reliable intelligence, tracked the kidnappers to a bush path around Ondo Village in Ugbokolo, Okpokwu Local Government Area. After hours of searching, they found and rescued 11 hostages. One suspect was caught at the scene.
“This success is a result of continuous intelligence-driven efforts,” the police said, adding that the rescued victims are now receiving medical care and counselling.
The police noted that two victims had already been rescued earlier, bringing the total number of freed hostages to 13.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, praised the bravery of the officers and promised that the remaining suspects will be found and prosecuted. He also thanked the victims’ families for their patience and support.
He urged the public to continue giving the police helpful information to fight crime effectively.
