Seven suspects have been arrested in connection with the abduction of passengers from a Benue Links bus on the Makurdi–Otukpo road on 15 April. The attack occurred at night along the Benue Burnt Bricks axis in Otukpo Local Government Area, when gunmen intercepted the vehicle, robbed the occupants, and took several into the bush. Among those abducted were candidates travelling to sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination. Police spokesperson Udeme Edet confirmed that a joint security operation in Amla Forest and surrounding areas led to the rescue of some victims, who were subsequently taken to a medical facility for treatment.
Authorities clarified that the victims were not part of an organised student convoy but passengers on a commercial bus heading to Makurdi. The bus was carrying about 18 people, including many UTME candidates. In the days following the attack, two victims managed to escape. The driver of the bus was separately arrested for violating company policy by undertaking an unauthorised night journey and picking up passengers without a formal manifest. Police Commissioner Ifeanyi Emenari stated that tactical teams continue operations in forest areas to locate the remaining victims and dismantle the criminal network responsible. Residents have been urged to provide credible information to aid ongoing efforts.
The police arrested the bus driver for breaking company rules, yet allowed the abduction of UTME candidates to unfold on a major highway. While seven suspects are in custody, the fact that two teenage siblings were among those taken shows how routine travel has become perilous for students heading to national exams. The same road used by thousands of commuters remains vulnerable despite prior knowledge of criminal activity. No explanation has been offered for why such a high-risk route lacked adequate security during peak travel hours.
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