Rescue efforts in Benue succeeded as Governor Hyacinth Alia confirmed the safe release of 15 abducted passengers, including eight JAMB candidates, after a coordinated security operation.
MAKURDI, Nigeria – A major rescue operation in Benue State has led to the safe release of 15 abducted passengers, Governor Hyacinth Alia confirmed on Sunday.
Alia disclosed the development during a joint briefing with the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, at the Government House in Makurdi.
The victims were kidnapped on Wednesday, April 15, along the Taraku–Otukpo road but were later rescued unharmed through coordinated security efforts.
According to the governor, 17 persons were initially abducted during the incident.
He explained that two of the victims escaped separately, leaving 15 who were eventually freed during the rescue operation.
Among those released were eight candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
Alia appealed to JAMB to make special arrangements for the affected candidates to enable them sit their examinations.
He assured that the Benue State Government would provide full support to facilitate the process.
The governor also directed that the rescued victims receive free medical care.
He further instructed the Ministry of Education to assist in ensuring the academic continuity of the affected students.
Reaffirming confidence in the state’s security outlook, Alia said criminal elements would not be allowed to destabilise Benue.
“Benue remains peaceful, and criminal elements will not be tolerated,” the governor stated.
He commended security agencies for their swift response and successful handling of the rescue mission.
Earlier, Police Commissioner Ifeanyi Emenari disclosed that eight suspects had been arrested in connection with the abduction.
According to him, credible evidence linked seven of the suspects to the crime and other kidnapping incidents in the area.
The police chief attributed the success of the operation to coordinated action by security personnel, with support from the Inspector-General of Police and the Benue State Government.
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