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The Benue Police Command spokesperson added that nine other victims remained in the custody of the kidnappers, as security operatives intensified efforts to secure their safe release.
By Emmanuel Antswen
Five out of 14 passengers abducted from a passenger bus travelling from Enugu to Abuja along the Ankpechi–Omutele axis of Ohimini Local Government of Benue State have been rescued.
The spokesperson for Benue Police Police Command, DSP Aondongu Orchia, confirmed the rescue of the five passengers in a statement on Friday in Makurdi.
The police spokesperson said the passengers were abducted on the night of Aug. 13.
He said the Command promptly launched a coordinated operation that led to the rescue of the five of the victims early on Friday.
Orchia said the operation involved an exchange of gunfire between the police and suspected kidnappers, leading to the rescue of five victims, including a four-year-old boy.
He said a total of 14 passengers were adopted.
The Benue Police Command spokesperson added that nine other victims remained in the custody of the kidnappers, as security operatives intensified efforts to secure their safe release.
According to the command, one of the rescued victims sustained a gunshot injury during the operation and was immediately taken to a medical facility in Otukpo for medical attention.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, assured families of the affected persons and the public that concerted efforts were underway to rescue the remaining victims.
He urged residents of the affected communities to remain calm and vigilant while providing credible information that could assist the ongoing operation.
The command said it would continue to provide updates as developments unfold.
(NAN)
