Gunmen kidnap 18 passengers in Benue Links bus attack in Otukpo

Suspected armed men have abducted 18 passengers following an attack on a Benue Links commercial bus in Otukpo, Benue State, in a late-night ambush that has heightened concerns over insecurity in the area.

The incident occurred on Tuesday night, with only two the driver and one passenger reportedly managing to escape, while the remaining occupants were taken away by the assailants.

Early reports indicate that the bus was intercepted while travelling along an undisclosed route in Otukpo.

The attackers allegedly forced the vehicle to stop before herding the passengers into a nearby bush.

As of the time of this report, the 18 victims are still missing, and their identities have not yet been officially confirmed.

Authorities have also not disclosed the exact location of the attack.

The development has sparked fear among residents and commuters in Otukpo, a key town in Benue South, which has recorded repeated cases of kidnappings and attacks along major roads in recent times.

Some residents described the incident as frightening, raising alarm over the dangers associated with travelling in the area. Commuters also urged security agencies to act swiftly to rescue the victims and restore safety on the roads.

At the time of filing this report, authorities had not released an official statement.

However, the incident has once again drawn attention to the growing insecurity in Benue State and the urgent need for stronger security measures along vulnerable routes.

The attack is expected to renew calls for immediate intervention by security agencies to secure the safe return of the abducted passengers and prevent further incidents.