By Emmy Joe
FOUR suspected kidnappers have been killed by security operatives in Ogbadibo LGA of Benue State in the early hours of Friday, January 30, 2026.
The kidnappers, believed to have turned neighbouring communities of Okpokwu and Ogbadibo as well as the Enugu–Otukpo highway into perpetual nightmare for travellers and residents, were allegedly tracked down by joint task force, which included personnel of the military, Nigeria Police Force and Benue State Civil Protection Guards, after a failed attempt to kidnap a Reverend Father in Obollo-Afor, Udenu LGA of Enugu State.
Security sources said, the terror kidnappers were fleeing toward Benue State after the failed abduction effort but were intercepted by troops near Orokam, where the gunmen and security team engaged in heavy gun battle, resulting in the elimination of the four members of the gang.
The Benue State Police Command confirmed the incident, saying that the security team were on a routine stop-and-search operation when they encountered the kidnappers. The police also said it recovered an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and other items from the scene.
Commending the efforts of the security team, the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, lauded the officers for the bravery and professionalism displayed during the operation.
Residents in the area were said to have identified the deceased as members of a notorious gang responsible for the incessant attacks along the Enugu–Otukpo highway.
People around the Orokam environs were in excitement, expressing optimism that further security operations would bring lasting peace and stability to the community and its environs.
