Odita Sunday 
Police Rescue 18 Abducted Benue Links Passengers, Arrest Seven Over Otukpo Kidnap
The Nigeria Police Force on Monday said it had successfully rescued all passengers abducted during the Otukpo kidnapping incident involving a Benue Links bus on April 15, 2026.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the police disclosed that the victims were rescued following coordinated clearance operations by operatives of the Benue State Command.
The statement said the operation, which was driven by credible intelligence, was carried out across the Amla Forest corridor and adjoining areas, leading to the safe recovery of the remaining 13 victims.
According to the police, the rescued victims include eight students who were travelling to Otukpo to sit for their Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.
It added that with the latest rescue, all 18 passengers initially abducted in the attack have now been accounted for.
“The victims have undergone medical evaluation, are in stable condition, and will be reunited with their families after necessary debriefing,” the statement said.
The police further disclosed that seven suspects were arrested during the operation, noting that three of them had been identified as members of the kidnapping syndicate.
It added that investigations were ongoing to arrest other members of the criminal network behind the incident.
The statement noted that the suspects are currently in custody and are being interrogated in line with the law.
Reacting, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, commended the officers for their professionalism and gallantry.
He also directed the intensification of clearance operations within the Otukpo axis to sustain security in the area.
The police boss reassured Nigerians of the Force’s commitment to protecting lives and property, urging citizens to provide timely and credible information to aid security agencies.
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