The Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Ifeanyi Emenari, has confirmed the rescue of five passengers abducted along the Makurdi–Otukpo road.

The victims were among passengers attacked on Wednesday night while travelling in a bus operated by Benue Links.

Speaking with journalists in Makurdi, the police commissioner disclosed that 13 victims remain in captivity. He explained that 18 passengers, including the driver, were on board when the attack occurred. 

Three passengers were not taken by the abductors, while two managed to escape.

Emenari clarified that none of the five rescued victims had been confirmed as candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, although authorities suspect that one or two of those still in captivity could be.

“The most important thing now is for us to rescue the passengers, no matter who they are. The 13 victims are still in a danger zone,” he said.

He assured that security operatives are intensifying efforts to secure the release of the remaining victims, noting that rescue teams have been deployed to Otukpo and surrounding areas.

“We are on top of the situation. Our rescue teams are in Otukpo, and we are not going to leave until the last victim is rescued,” he stated, adding that comprehensive operations are underway to flush out the perpetrators.

The commissioner further revealed that clearing operations have commenced across parts of the state, including Apa Local Government Area and Logo Local Government Area, as part of broader efforts to tackle criminal activities, especially with the onset of the farming season.

The passengers were reportedly en route to Otukpo, with some believed to be travelling to sit for the ongoing UTME. Police had earlier indicated that 14 passengers were abducted in the incident.