Security forces rescue remaining 13 kidnap victims in Benue

Security operatives have rescued the remaining 13 passengers abducted by gunmen in Benue State, bringing relief after days of uncertainty.

The Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, confirmed the development early Sunday, stating that the victims would be brought to Makurdi shortly, where a formal briefing is expected.

The victims were among passengers attacked on Wednesday night when armed men intercepted a vehicle belonging to the state-owned transport company, Benue Links, and took several travellers hostage.

Earlier, five of the abducted passengers had been freed, leaving 13 in captivity before the latest rescue operation.

The incident had generated controversy after the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) stated that none of its candidates were involved in the abduction.

However, a relative of one of the victims disputed the claim, insisting that many of those on board were travelling to Otukpo to sit for the ongoing Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

According to the family member, most passengers hurriedly embarked on the journey to meet early examination schedules, suggesting that a significant number were indeed candidates.

Authorities are expected to provide further details as the rescued victims arrive in Makurdi.