The Benue State Police Command has mobilized drones and increased security operations to rescue 11 passengers and a driver who were abducted by armed gunmen in the Okpokwu Local Government Area. The victims were traveling in a Benue Links transport bus from Abeokuta, Ogun State, to Makurdi when they were intercepted around 6:30 PM on Sunday.

Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers ambushed the bus, robbing the passengers of their belongings before forcing them into the surrounding forest. Only one passenger managed to escape and reached the Eke Police Station to report the incident.

Benue Links confirmed the abduction in a statement, detailing the circumstances of the attack and the vehicle’s registration number. The company expressed deep regret over the incident and reassured the public that it is cooperating with security agencies to ensure the safe return of those kidnapped.

In response to the incident, a joint security team comprising police, military personnel, and the Benue State Community Volunteer Guards was dispatched to the area. The police spokesperson, SP Udeme Edet, confirmed the successful rescue of one individual, Paul Terna, who escaped from the kidnappers.

Edet indicated that additional reinforcements have been sent to the location as the search continues. By Monday evening, the Benue State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, arrived at the scene to oversee the ongoing operations. Although there were no further updates at that time, the deployment of drones aims to enhance the search efforts for the remaining abducted individuals.