NO fewer than 15 passengers have been abducted by suspected gunmen along the Makurdi–Otukpo highway, with the Benue State Police Command confirming that a search operation is currently underway to rescue the victims.
A source who spoke to News Point Nigeria disclosed that the incident occurred on April 15, 2026, at about 8:30pm, when a driver with Benue Links, identified as Peter Ikwe, reported the attack to the Divisional Police Officer in Otukpo.
Read also: Gunmen Invade Research Institute In Oyo, Abduct Senior Officers
The driver was said to have been conveying passengers in a Toyota Hiace bus with registration number BGT 224 SA from Makurdi to Otukpo at the time of the incident.
According to him, there were 18 passengers on board when the vehicle was intercepted near the vicinity of Operation Whirl Stroke barracks.
Read also: Benue, Osun Police Commands Get New PROs as IGP Disu Approves Fresh Postings
Sources said the armed assailants blocked the highway and forcefully whisked away 15 of the passengers into the surrounding bush, while a few others managed to escape from the scene.
Following the distress report, the Divisional Police Officer promptly mobilised patrol and tactical teams to the area.
Joint security units were also deployed and have since commenced combing nearby bushes in a bid to rescue the abducted passengers and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
Read also: Benue Seals Schools After Parents’ Complaints Over Compulsory Textbook Purchases
The police command further disclosed that its Anti-Kidnapping Unit has launched a full investigation into the incident.
The police added that further updates will be provided as ongoing operations continue.
