By Amos Aar
THE NIGERIA Police Force has released additional information regarding the successful rescue of the remaining passengers abducted from a Benue Links commercial vehicle on June 22, 2025.
The operation, which culminated in the safe recovery of all victims, was carried out through a coordinated security effort in Okpokwu LGA of Benue State.
The abduction occurred when a Benue Links Hummer Bus, with registration number 14B143BN, was ambushed while transporting passengers along the Eke-Elengbecho axis of the Otukpo-Enugu highway.
During the attack, twelve individuals were taken hostage. Two of the victims were rescued earlier, while the remaining ten passengers and the driver were freed days later in what authorities have described as a significant breakthrough in the case.
The Benue State Police Command confirmed that the rescue was executed through an intelligence-led operation involving multiple security agencies.
The collaborative effort included personnel from the Inspector-General of Police Special Intervention Squad (IGP-SIS), the Benue State Police Tactical and Patrol Teams, the Military, and other sister security agencies.
Acting on credible intelligence indicating that the kidnappers were relocating the victims through a bush path near Ondo Village in Ugbokolo, security operatives launched a search operation. After hours of combing the area, the victims were successfully located and rescued.
Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Udeme Edet, the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), stated: “After hours of combing the area, eleven (11) victims were safely located and rescued. One suspect has been arrested in connection with the kidnapping, while efforts are being sustained to identify and arrest the other suspects. The victims are currently receiving appropriate medical attention and psychological support.”
In a separate statement, Benue Links Nigeria Limited confirmed the safe return of the abducted passengers and driver. The company expressed profound relief over their release, describing the incident as a “distressing ordeal.”
Daniel Ehi, the company’s Information Officer, acknowledged the efforts of security operatives, local leaders, and other stakeholders who contributed to the rescue. He further reassured the public of the company’s commitment to passenger and staff safety.
“Benue Links Nigeria Limited remains steadfast in our commitment to the safety and security of all our passengers and staff.
“We will continue to collaborate closely with law enforcement authorities to ensure that justice is served and to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
“Enhanced security measures are also being implemented across all our routes to further safeguard our operations,” Ehi stated.
While the rescue has been widely commended, questions have arisen regarding whether a ransom was paid to secure the victims’ release. A close relative of one of the abductees claimed that N2 million per victim was paid before their freedom was secured.
Neither the police nor Benue Links directly addressed the ransom allegations.
When contacted for clarification, DSP Udeme Edet declined to comment on the matter, while Ehi, the Benue Links Information Officer, did not respond to further inquiries after issuing the company’s official statement.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, commended the professionalism of the officers involved in the operation and assured the public that investigations would continue until all perpetrators are apprehended and prosecuted.
He also expressed gratitude to the families of the victims for their patience and members of the public who provided vital intelligence that aided the rescue.
