Police rescue 13 kidnap victims in Benue

Thirteen passengers abducted eight days ago in Benue State have been rescued by a combined team of security operatives. The victims were traveling in an 18-seater commercial bus from Enugu State to Abuja when they were seized along the Ankpechi–Omutele axis in Ohimini Local Government Area on the night of August 13, 2026.

The rescue operation, which involved a joint tactical team, took place on Thursday night in the Amla-Cho Forest. The spokesperson for the Benue State Command, Peter Aondongu, confirmed the successful rescue on Friday, stating it followed sustained search and rescue efforts in collaboration with local security personnel.

According to Aondongu's statement, the operation represented a significant breakthrough in disrupting the activities of kidnappers operating in the area. Operatives, acting on credible intelligence, conducted a night operation that culminated in the victims' recovery. The suspects reportedly fled the scene under the cover of darkness.

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The latest rescue operation represents a significant breakthrough in the Command’s efforts to disrupt the activities of the kidnappers.

During the rescue, operatives engaged the kidnappers in a gun battle, resulting in the neutralization of one suspect. An AK-47 rifle and five rounds of live ammunition were recovered from the scene. The rescued victims were taken for medical attention and subsequently transported to their destinations via chartered bus.

The police command is intensifying efforts to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects through intelligence-led operations. The Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, commended the personnel for their courage and resilience, assuring the public of the command's commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.

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After about five days of intense and relentless search and rescue operations, operatives, acting on credible intelligence, embarked on a night operation which culminated in the successful rescue of the victims at about 0200hrs on 20 August 2026 at Amla-Cho Forest, Otukpo Local Government Area, where the operatives encountered the kidnappers and the victims.