The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of seven suspected militia herdsmen linked to the abduction of passengers from an 18-seater Benue Links bus along the Makurdi–Otukpo road last Wednesday.
The kidnapped passengers, which included candidates of the
Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, JAMB, heading to Otukpo for their
examinations, have all been successfully rescued.
While briefing Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi during the
presentation of the freed victims, the Commissioner of Police, Mr Ifeanyi
Emenari, said the release was achieved through a coordinated effort of multiple
security agencies.
According to him, five of the abducted passengers were
initially freed, while the remaining 13 were rescued on Sunday morning.
“With the earlier release of five occupants of the vehicle,
the remaining 13 were rescued this, Sunday, morning unhurt,” Emenari stated.
He credited the success of the operation to the backing of
Governor Alia and the Inspector-General of Police, noting that the deployment
of the IGP tactical team increased pressure on the kidnappers.
“That is why we were able to mount pressure on the bandits
to ensure the victims’ safe return,” he added.
The police boss further disclosed that eight suspects are
currently in custody, out of which seven are believed to be directly involved
in the kidnapping.
“We already have eight suspects in our custody, and out of
this number, seven are suspected herdsmen bandits connected with the crime.
Some of the victims have been able to identify them,” he said.
He also revealed that security forces have begun special
clearance operations across the state to dislodge criminal groups hiding in
forest areas, in line with directives from both the Inspector-General of Police
and the state government.
Receiving the rescued passengers, Governor Hyacinth Alia
expressed worry over the increasing cases of kidnapping in the state but
appreciated the safe recovery of all 18 victims.
He noted, “Among the victims are eight young people who were
heading to Otukpo to write their examinations. On the whole, 18 persons were
kidnapped, and I am happy to hear that they have all returned safely. I am also
pleased that seven suspected herdsmen bandits have been arrested over the
incident.”
The governor urged the Joint Admissions and Matriculation
Board, JAMB, to consider fixing another date for the affected candidates so
they can sit for their exams.
He assured that the state government remains committed to
supporting the victims and maintaining a strict stance against criminal
activities.
Governor Alia also called on residents to assist security
agencies with credible information and directed the Commissioner for Health and
Human Services to ensure proper medical checks for all rescued persons.
He further promised that the government would roll out
support measures for the affected passengers.
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