Gunmen Abduct Passengers in Okpokwu, Benue — Police

Gunmen on Sunday evening abducted an unspecified number of passengers after intercepting a commercial bus along the Eke axis in Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue State.

According to a report by PUNCH, a local source disclosed that the attack occurred around 6:30 p.m., when the assailants allegedly stopped the vehicle, robbed the passengers, and then whisked them away into a nearby bush.

The bus involved in the incident is believed to belong to the Benue State Transport Company, commonly known as Benue Links, though the company is yet to issue an official statement confirming the ownership of the vehicle.

On Monday, the Benue State Police Command confirmed the attack, describing it as a suspected case of kidnapping involving a Hummer bus.

The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Udeme Edet, said the command responded swiftly after receiving information about the incident.

“We are investigating a suspected kidnapping where a Hummer bus with registration number 14B-43BN was parked by the road in Ugbokolo, (Okpokwu LGA),” Edet stated.

“On receipt of the information, police tactical teams, military, and the Benue State Community Volunteer Guards arrived at the scene.

“They combed the bush and rescued one Paul Terna, who escaped from the hands of the suspected kidnappers.”

Edet added that additional reinforcements have been deployed to intensify the search for the remaining victims.

“Additional reinforcement has been sent to locate other passengers as soon as possible,” he assured.

The attack adds to the growing security concerns in Benue State, which has recently witnessed a string of violent incidents, including mass killings and displacements in rural communities.

PUNCH