The Benue State Police Command has confirmed that 15 passengers were abducted by suspected gunmen along the Makurdi–Otukpo highway. The attack occurred on April 15, 2026, at 8:30 p.m. when a Toyota Hiace bus with registration number BGT 224 SA was ambushed close to the Operation Whirl Stroke barracks. The bus, operated by Benue Links driver Peter Ikwe, had 18 passengers onboard when it was attacked.
The attackers barricaded the highway and dragged 15 passengers into the nearby bush, while a few others managed to flee. The police were alerted by the driver, and the Divisional Police Officer in Otukpo promptly deployed patrol and tactical teams to the location. Joint security operatives are combing surrounding bushes to locate the victims and track down the kidnappers.
The police command's Anti-Kidnapping Unit has launched a full investigation into the attack. The command has assured that more information will be released as the rescue mission progresses.
The abduction of 15 passengers by suspected gunmen along the Makurdi–Otukpo highway is a disturbing development that underscores the vulnerability of travellers in the region. The fact that the attack occurred close to the Operation Whirl Stroke barracks, a supposed security stronghold, raises concerns about the effectiveness of security measures in place. The Benue State Police Command's prompt response to the incident, including the deployment of patrol and tactical teams, is a positive step towards rescuing the victims and tracking down the kidnappers.
The incident highlights the need for increased security presence along the Makurdi–Otukpo highway, particularly at night, to prevent such attacks. The police command's investigation into the attack will be crucial in determining the motives behind the abduction and identifying those responsible. The safety of travellers in the region depends on the ability of security agencies to respond quickly and effectively to such incidents.
The abduction of the 15 passengers will have a significant impact on the families of the victims, who will be anxiously waiting for news of their loved ones. The incident will also affect the livelihoods of people who rely on the Makurdi–Otukpo highway for their daily activities, as it may lead to increased fear and uncertainty among travellers. The police command's assurance that more information will be released as the rescue mission progresses is a welcome development, and it is hoped that the victims will be rescued soon.
The incident is part of a larger pattern of insecurity in the region, which has been plagued by kidnappings and armed attacks in recent times. The Benue State Police Command's response to the incident will be closely watched, and it is hoped that the command will take concrete steps to prevent such incidents in the future.
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