Police rescue 14 abducted Benue Links passengers, One confirmed dead

Police in Benue State have successfully rescued 14 passengers of Benue Links Motors who were kidnapped on Thursday night near Otukpo.

According to a statement released Friday night by the state Police Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, the rescue mission was carried out with the help of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard.

Anene confirmed that the driver of the vehicle and one of the passengers lost their lives due to gunshot wounds sustained during the abduction.

“The team launched a search for the kidnapped victims within the nearby forest immediately,” she stated.

“On 4/4/2025, at about 1500hrs, they sighted the bandits in the forest and engaged them in a gun duel.”

“The superior firepower of the police subdued them, causing the bandits to flee and abandon their captives.”

She further revealed that two of the victims had already suffered machete injuries before help arrived.

Fourteen victims were eventually rescued and taken to the hospital.

Sadly, one of them was confirmed dead, while others are still undergoing treatment.