The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the successful rescue of four travelers who were kidnapped by armed bandits along the Adoka–Ankpa Road.
Security sources disclosed that the victims were passengers in a Siena vehicle conveying bags of rice from Naka to Kogi State.
The incident occurred around 9:00 p.m. on February 8, when the vehicle was intercepted and the occupants forcefully taken into the surrounding bush by unidentified gunmen.
In a swift response, security operatives moved into action following the report of the abduction. According to the police, “The DPO Adoka promptly mobilized patrol teams with other tactical units, combed nearby bushes, and rescued the victims unhurt and without ransom.
They were debriefed and allowed to continue their journey,” the Command stated.
Meanwhile, fresh intelligence obtained by the State Investigation Department (SID) on February 9 revealed that suspected armed herdsmen are believed to be hiding in the Ordue Zungu area of Moon Council Ward, Turan Jato-Aka, in Kwande Local Government Area.
The same axis was reportedly linked to the killing of a unit commander and ten civilians in the previous week.
Police authorities explained that the difficult terrain, which involves crossing the Moon Stream, has made access to the area challenging.
The bandits were described as heavily armed and operating in large numbers, raising serious security concerns.
Residents of several communities, including Anen, Tumahar in the Ikyurav area, Udedeku, Nyihemba, Acho’Ba in Moon, as well as Wayar and Nyuduu in Yaar, were warned of a possible attack.
According to the security report, the release of police air units is recommended for two days to assist in dislodging the bandits due to the operational difficulties on the ground.
Despite the threats, the Benue State Police Command assured residents that the general security situation across the state remains relatively stable, adding that surveillance and patrol activities have been intensified to forestall any breakdown of law and order.