Benue Attack: Police Arrest 7 Suspects, Rescue Victims

The Police in Benue State on Friday night said seven suspects have been arrested in connection with the kidnapping of passengers aboard the state-owned transport vehicle travelling to Otukpo area of the state.

Our correspondent reports that the incident happened on Wednesday around Ikobi, near Otukpo town in Benue State.

The police said the security operatives in search of the abducted people recorded a breakthrough in the investigation with the arrest of seven suspects and the rescue of some victims.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, said the arrests were made during a coordinated joint security operation involving the police and other security agencies.

She said operatives launched a targeted search-and-rescue mission in Amla Forest, Otukpo and adjoining areas, leading to the successful rescue of some of the abducted victims, who are currently receiving medical attention.

According to the statement, intelligence gathered during the operation also led to the arrest of seven suspects, who are now in police custody as investigations continue.

It added that the State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, assured residents that efforts were being intensified to rescue the remaining victims and restore security in the area.

Emenari urged members of the public to support security agencies with credible information and report suspicious activities through designated police hotlines or at the nearest police station.(Daily trust)