All 18 passengers abducted from a Benue Links bus on April 15, 2026, have regained freedom following a coordinated security operation, with police confirming their safe rescue.
Benue State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, disclosed this on Sunday while presenting 15 of the victims to Governor Hyacinth Alia at the Government House in Makurdi.
Emenari said the joint effort by multiple security agencies led to the successful recovery of all the victims, describing the outcome as a major breakthrough. He also confirmed the arrest of seven suspects linked to the attack, noting that they were apprehended through intelligence-led operations and are currently in custody.
The rescued passengers are expected to receive medical attention as investigations continue.
Governor Alia commended the security operatives and local communities for their role in securing the victims’ release. He further revealed that eight of those abducted were candidates sitting for the ongoing Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), who were en route to Otukpo when the incident occurred—contrary to earlier claims that no candidates were involved.
The attack took place last Wednesday when gunmen intercepted the state-owned bus along the Benue Burnt Bricks axis in Otukpo Local Government Area, robbing passengers before taking several into the bush.
A swift security response led to the rescue of some victims, while two managed to escape. By Sunday morning, authorities confirmed that the remaining 13 had been freed, bringing the operation to a successful conclusion.
