Police operatives in Benue State have successfully freed 19 travellers who were abducted by suspected armed bandits along the Ohimini–Otukpo Road in Ohimini Local Government Area.
Security sources disclosed to Zagazola Makama that the abduction took place in the early hours of December 22 after gunmen mounted a roadblock at Mechanic Village on the Ohimini–Otukpo corridor and intercepted two commercial vehicles, forcing their occupants into the surrounding forest.
According to the sources, the attack was reported at about 2:00 a.m., involving a Toyota Hiace bus travelling from Oju to Ibadan with nine passengers.
Another vehicle, a Toyota Hummer bus belonging to Plateau Riders Company, was also ambushed.
The bus, driven by Igoche John from Jos, Plateau State, was heading to Bayelsa State with 11 passengers on board.
Following the distress call, police authorities immediately deployed patrol teams and tactical units to the area. Operatives advanced to the scene and carried out an extensive search of nearby bushes.
The strong police presence reportedly pressured the attackers to flee, abandoning the captives. As a result, 19 passengers were rescued safely without any ransom being paid.
After preliminary questioning, the rescued individuals were cleared and allowed to proceed with their respective journeys.
However, one passenger, identified as Boniface Ndukwe from Jos, Plateau State, is still suspected to be in the custody of the kidnappers.
Police authorities stated that operations are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and ensure the safe rescue of the remaining victim.
