Two Passengers Escape Kidnappers in Benue State Attack

On Wednesday evening, 14 passengers were abducted along the Makurdi-Otukpo road in Benue State, believed to be young individuals traveling for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). The attack occurred around 8 PM when gunmen intercepted a vehicle carrying 18 passengers, robbing the occupants and taking them into nearby bushes.

Two individuals, including the driver, managed to escape captivity. The Benue State Police Command confirmed the development on Friday and is actively investigating the incident, with police spokesperson Udem Edet stating that a tactical team, including an anti-kidnap unit, has been deployed to track the abductors.

The police also clarified that the driver was in custody for violating company policies by embarking on an unauthorized night journey without a formal manifest. Alexand Fanafa, the company’s general manager, noted the risks involved in the situation.