How we rescued kidnapped Benue Links passengers, arrested one suspect – Police

The Benue State Police Command has announced the successful rescue of 11 kidnapped passengers who were abducted on June 22, 2025, from a Benue Links Hummer Bus. One suspect linked to the abduction has also been arrested.

In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, the rescue operation was executed by the Inspector-General of Police Special Intervention Squad (IGP-SIS), in collaboration with the Command’s Tactical and Patrol Teams, the Military, and other security agencies.

According to the statement, the joint team acted on credible intelligence to trace the kidnappers through bush paths around Ondo Village in Ugbokolo, Okpokwu Local Government Area. After hours of intense combing, 11 victims were rescued and one suspect was apprehended at the scene.

“This positive development follows a sustained and intelligence-driven operation. The victims are currently receiving medical attention and psychological support,” the statement said.

The Command noted that this rescue follows an earlier operation in which two victims from the same abduction case were rescued and reunited with their families, bringing the total number of rescued victims to 13.

Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, commended the bravery and professionalism of the operatives involved in the mission. He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to bringing all perpetrators of the crime to justice.

“We remain resolute in our efforts to ensure the safety and security of all residents of Benue State,” CP Emenari said. “We appreciate the patience and cooperation of the victims’ families and encourage the public to continue providing useful information to assist law enforcement.”

The Command assured that efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining suspects and dismantle criminal networks operating in the area.