Two kidnapped UTME-bound passengers regain freedom in Benue

Two passengers kidnapped by gunmen along the Makurdi–Otukpo highway in Benue State have escaped from captivity, as security operatives step up efforts to rescue others still being held.

The Benue State Police Command confirmed the development on Friday, disclosing that one suspect has been arrested in connection with the attack.

The victims were among passengers travelling in a commercial bus operated by Benue Links Nigeria Limited when the vehicle was ambushed on Wednesday evening along the Benue Burnt Bricks axis in Otukpo Local Government Area.

Police spokesperson, Udeme Edet, identified the vehicle as a Toyota Hiace bus belonging to Benue Links and said tactical units, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, have been deployed to comb surrounding areas and track down the abductors.

According to Edet, the command has mobilised multiple operational teams and is collaborating with other security agencies to ensure the safe rescue of the remaining victims and bring the perpetrators to justice.

READ ALSO: Gunmen abduct 14 JAMB candidates, others in Benue

Earlier reports indicated that 14 passengers were abducted during the attack. Many were initially believed to be young candidates travelling to sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board. However, authorities later clarified that not all those on board were UTME candidates.

Eyewitnesses said the bus, which was conveying about 18 passengers, was intercepted at approximately 8 p.m. The attackers reportedly robbed the occupants before forcing several of them into nearby bushes. Two individuals, including the driver, initially escaped from the scene.

Meanwhile, both the police and the management of Benue Links confirmed that the driver is currently in custody for violating company policy by undertaking an unauthorised night journey.

The company’s General Manager, Alexander Fanafa, stated that the driver picked up passengers after official operating hours without a formal manifest, thereby exposing them to significant risk.

Security agencies have assured residents that operations are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining captives and restore safety along the busy Makurdi–Otukpo corridor.