Benue: Police rescue abducted travellers on Adoka–Ankpa road, raise security warning

The Benue State Police Command has announced the rescue of four travellers who were abducted by armed criminals along the Adoka–Ankpa Road in the state.

According to security reports, the victims were travelling in a Siena vehicle loaded with bags of rice from Naka en route to Kogi State when they were attacked.

The abduction reportedly took place at about 9:00 p.m. on February 8, after the vehicle was stopped along the highway and its occupants marched into nearby bushes by unknown gunmen.

Following the incident, security operatives swiftly responded to the distress report. The police disclosed that, “The DPO Adoka promptly mobilized patrol teams with other tactical units, combed nearby bushes, and rescued the victims unhurt and without ransom.

They were debriefed and allowed to continue their journey,” the Command stated.

In a related development, intelligence gathered by the State Investigation Department (SID) on February 9 indicated that suspected armed Fulani herdsmen bandits are allegedly camped in the Ordue Zungu area of Moon Council Ward, Turan Jato-Aka, within Kwande Local Government Area.

The location was also said to be connected to the recent killing of a unit commander and ten civilians last week.

Police authorities noted that access to the area has been difficult due to the rugged terrain and the need to cross the Moon Stream. The suspects were described as heavily armed and operating in large groups, posing a significant security threat.

Communities such as Anen and Tumahar in the Ikyurav axis, Udedeku, Nyihemba and Acho’Ba in Moon, as well as Wayar and Nyuduu in Yaar, have been cautioned to remain vigilant over a possible attack.

A security brief further recommended that “The release of police air units is recommended for two days to assist in dislodging the bandits,” citing the operational challenges faced by ground forces.

Nevertheless, the Benue State Police Command reassured residents that security across the state remains largely calm, stressing that patrols and surveillance have been strengthened to prevent any breakdown of law and order.