Police arrest seven suspected herdsmen over abduction of JAMB candidates in Benue
Benue Police Arrest Seven Suspected Militia Herdsmen in Kidnapping Case
MAKURDI, Nigeria – The Benue State Police Command announced the arrest of seven suspected militia herdsmen connected to the abduction of passengers from an 18-seater Benue Links bus along the Makurdi–Otukpo road last Wednesday.
All kidnapped passengers, including candidates heading to Otukpo for Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examinations, have been successfully rescued.
During a briefing with Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi following the presentation of the freed victims, Police Commissioner Ifeanyi Emenari stated that the release resulted from a coordinated effort among multiple security agencies. Initially, five passengers were freed, with the remaining 13 rescued on Sunday morning.
“With the earlier release of five occupants of the vehicle, the remaining 13 were rescued this Sunday morning unhurt,” Emenari said.
He attributed the operation’s success to support from Governor Alia and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), noting that the deployment of the IGP’s tactical team intensified pressure on the kidnappers.
“That is why we were able to mount pressure on the bandits to ensure the victims’ safe return,” he added.
Emenari also indicated that eight suspects are in custody, with seven believed to be directly involved in the kidnapping. “Some of the victims have been able to identify them,” he said.
In response to the growing incidence of kidnapping in the state, security forces have commenced special clearance operations targeting criminal groups in forest areas, in accordance with directives from the IGP and the state government.
Governor Alia expressed concern over the rise in kidnapping incidents but welcomed the safe recovery of all 18 victims, noting that among them were eight young people preparing for their examinations. “I am happy to hear that they have all returned safely. I am also pleased that seven suspected herdsmen bandits have been arrested over the incident,” he said.
The governor urged the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board to consider rescheduling exams for the affected candidates and assured that the state government remains committed to supporting the victims while maintaining a firm stance against criminal activities.
He encouraged residents to share credible information with security agencies and directed the Commissioner for Health and Human Services to provide medical checks for all rescued individuals. Additionally, he promised that the government would implement support measures for the affected passengers.
