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Security operatives in Benue State have arrested seven suspects in connection with the recent abduction of passengers along the Otukpo axis, marking a significant breakthrough in ongoing rescue efforts.
The Police Public Relations Officer for the state command, Udeme Edet, confirmed the arrests in a statement issued on Friday, noting that the suspects were apprehended through a coordinated intelligence-driven operation involving multiple security agencies.
The incident occurred on April 15, 2026, when gunmen attacked a commercial bus belonging to Benue Links Limited in Otukpo Local Government Area. The attackers reportedly intercepted the vehicle, robbed passengers, and whisked several victims into nearby bushes.
While initial reports suggested that about 17 passengers were abducted, police authorities clarified that 14 persons were taken, with one individual managing to escape during the operation.
According to the police, further intelligence gathered during follow-up operations led to the arrest of the seven suspects, who are currently in custody as investigations continue.
Security operatives have also launched targeted search-and-rescue missions in Amla Forest and surrounding areas. The operation has already yielded results, with some victims rescued and currently receiving medical attention.
The command, however, dismissed reports that the victims were students travelling to sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), stating that they were ordinary passengers aboard a Makurdi-bound bus and not part of any organised convoy of candidates.
Despite the police clarification, some reports indicated that a number of those abducted were believed to be candidates heading for the examination, which commenced nationwide on Thursday, raising further public concern.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, assured residents that security agencies are intensifying efforts to rescue the remaining victims and restore normalcy in the affected area.
Authorities also disclosed that at least two abducted passengers have escaped, while tactical and anti-kidnapping units continue to comb the area for others still in captivity.
Preliminary investigations further revealed that the bus driver may have violated company regulations by travelling at night and picking up passengers outside approved procedures. He is currently under interrogation.
The police have urged residents to support ongoing operations by providing credible and timely information, emphasizing the importance of public cooperation in tackling insecurity.
Reacting to the development, former Anambra State governor Peter Obi condemned the incident, describing it as evidence of worsening insecurity and a failure of leadership. He warned that the continued targeting of citizens, particularly during critical national activities, reflects deeper systemic challenges.
The incident has further heightened concerns over the safety of travellers across Nigeria, especially during peak periods such as national examinations when movement across states increases significantly.
