Joint security operatives have rescued the remaining 13 passengers abducted by gunmen in Benue State, days after the attack on a Benue Links vehicle, bringing the total number of freed victims to all those taken.

Breakthrough in rescue operation

The State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, confirmed the development on Sunday, noting that the rescued victims would be transported to Makurdi for further processing.

“Yes we’re planning a news conference this morning when they arrive Makurdi,” the police chief said.

The latest operation followed an earlier rescue of five victims, leaving 13 in captivity before the final breakthrough.

How the abduction happened

The incident occurred on Wednesday night when gunmen intercepted a state-owned Benue Links bus.

Passengers, including young men and women, were forcefully taken away by the attackers during the operation.

Many of those onboard were reportedly travelling to Otukpo for the ongoing Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.

Dispute over victims’ identity

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board had earlier denied that any of its candidates were among the victims.

However, a relative of one of the abducted passengers disputed the claim, insisting that several of those on the bus were heading to write the examination.

“My nephew was on that bus… most of the passengers were candidates,” the source said.

Security concerns remain

The incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity in parts of the country, despite ongoing efforts by authorities to curb attacks.

Residents continue to call for stronger action as kidnappings and violent incidents persist across affected regions.