Some 13 passengers of Benue Links Transport Company who were abducted at Eke in Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue State have regained their freedom after spending seven days in captivity.
They were rescued in a joint operation led by the police and local vigilantes.
Recall that the vehicle, with registration number 14B-143BN, was hijacked at about 6:30 p.m. on June 22, 2025while returning to Makurdi with passengers from Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The passengers were reportedly robbed and taken to an unknown destination.
The victims were released around 4 p.m. on Sunday and were received at the Okpokwu Divisional Police Station.
Adah Inalegwu, Chairman of Okpokwu LGA, confirmed the development on Sunday in an interview with Channels Television.
“The combined efforts of the police and community vigilante groups mounted pressure on the kidnappers as they combed surrounding forest areas.
“Two of the passengers were rescued on Saturday. The breakthrough continued on Sunday when, with the support of youths from neighbouring Kogi State, the search intensified, forcing the abductors to abandon the remaining 11 victims at Oando village around 4:00 pm,” Inalegwu said.
He attributed the success of the operation to the logistical support provided by Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, as well as improved surveillance and tracking measures.
The Public Relations Officer of Benue Links Transport Company, Ehi Johnson, who also confirmed the story, the said the abducted passengers were released on Sunday afternoon, could not confirm whether a ransom was paid or if the victims were rescued by security operatives.
“They are currently with the police at Ugbokolo in Okpokwu LGA. Details are still sketchy, but more information will be provided to the public soon,” he said.
He had earlier confirmed that the company’s bus was attacked last Sunday around 6:30 p.m. while returning to Makurdi with passengers from Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Authorities are currently profiling the rescued individuals before reuniting them with their families.
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