Police Arrest Seven Over Abduction of JAMB Candidates in Benue, Victims Rescued

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The Benue State Police Command has arrested seven suspected militia herdsmen in connection with the abduction of passengers, including candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), along the Makurdi–Otukpo road.

The victims, who were travelling in an 18-seater Benue Links bus to Otukpo for their examinations, have all been safely rescued.

The Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, disclosed this while briefing the Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, during the presentation of the rescued passengers in Makurdi.

According to Emenari, the rescue operation was carried out through a coordinated effort involving multiple security agencies. He explained that five of the abducted passengers were initially freed, while the remaining 13 regained their freedom on Sunday morning.

“With the earlier release of five occupants of the vehicle, the remaining 13 were rescued unhurt on Sunday morning,” he said.

The police commissioner attributed the success of the operation to the support of the state government and the deployment of the Inspector-General of Police’s tactical team, which intensified pressure on the kidnappers.

He further revealed that eight suspects are currently in custody, seven of whom are believed to be directly linked to the crime, adding that some of the victims have identified the suspects.

Emenari also noted that security operatives have commenced clearance operations across parts of the state to flush out criminal elements hiding in forest areas, following directives from the police high command and the state government.

Reacting, Governor Alia expressed concern over the rising cases of kidnapping in the state but commended security agencies for ensuring the safe return of all 18 victims.

“Among the victims are eight young people who were heading to Otukpo to write their examinations. I am pleased that all 18 persons have been rescued safely and that suspects have been arrested,” the governor said.

He urged JAMB to consider rescheduling the examinations for the affected candidates and assured that the state government would provide necessary support for the victims.

The governor also called on residents to assist security agencies with credible information and directed health officials to conduct medical checks on the rescued passengers while promising further support measures.