Police arrest seven suspects over abduction of JAMB candidates in Benue

The Benue State Police Command has arrested seven suspected militia herdsmen in connection with the abduction of passengers travelling in a Benue Links bus along the Makurdi–Otukpo highway.

The victims, who included candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) heading to Otukpo to sit for their examinations, have all been safely rescued.

Speaking while presenting the victims in Makurdi, the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, said the operation was carried out through a coordinated effort involving multiple security agencies.

He explained that five of the passengers were initially released by the kidnappers, while the remaining 13 were freed during a follow-up operation on Sunday morning.

According to him, a total of eight suspects are currently in custody, with seven believed to be directly involved in the abduction. Some of the rescued victims have reportedly identified the suspects.

Emenari credited the success of the operation to increased pressure on the kidnappers, supported by the deployment of tactical teams by the Inspector-General of Police.

He added that intensified security operations are ongoing across the state to dismantle criminal networks and clear forest hideouts used by armed groups.

Receiving the rescued passengers, Hyacinth Alia expressed relief over their safe return, noting that all 18 abducted individuals had regained freedom.

He highlighted that eight of the victims were students travelling to write their examinations and appealed to JAMB to consider rescheduling the tests for those affected.

The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity, urging residents to support security agencies with credible information.

He directed health authorities to carry out medical checks on the victims and assured that the state government would provide necessary support for their recovery.