Five rescued as gunmen abduct 14 passengers travelling from Enugu to Abuja

Gunmen have abducted 14 passengers travelling to Abuja after attacking a commercial bus along the Ankpechi–Omutele route in Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State.

The victims, who were travelling from Enugu State to the Federal Capital Territory, were intercepted on Thursday night by armed men who stopped their vehicle, forced all occupants into a nearby forest, and abandoned the bus at the scene.

Following the incident, security operatives launched a rescue operation which led to the recovery of five victims, including a four-year-old child.

Confirming the development, the spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Orchia Peter Aondongu, said the rescue mission was carried out in the early hours of Friday after a gun battle with the suspects.

He added that nine passengers are still being held by the kidnappers.

Aondongu also disclosed that one of the rescued victims sustained a gunshot injury during the operation and was taken to a hospital in Otukpo for treatment.

According to him, police personnel and other security agencies have continued search-and-rescue efforts to secure the release of the remaining captives.

The Commissioner of Police in Benue State, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, assured families of the victims that efforts were ongoing to ensure their safe return.

The command also urged residents to remain calm and support security agencies with useful information that could aid the operation and help prevent future attacks.

Police said further updates would be provided as the rescue mission continues.