Security personnel conduct search operations in the bush near Ugbokolo, Benue State, following the abduction of bus passengers.
A commercial bus was ambushed along the Eke-Ugbokolo axis in Okpokwu LGA, as security forces intensify search for missing victims.
Gunmen have abducted several passengers travelling in a commercial bus along the Eke axis of Okpokwu Local Government Area in Benue State.
The incident, which occurred around 6:30pm on Sunday, involved a Hummer bus belonging to the Benue State Transport Company, also known as Benue Links.
Eyewitnesses say the attackers blocked the road, robbed passengers, and forcibly took an unspecified number of them into the surrounding bush.
While the transport company is yet to officially confirm the ownership of the vehicle, the Benue State Police Command on Monday, verified the attack and said a manhunt is underway.
Police spokesperson SP Sewuese Anene, speaking on behalf of the Command, confirmed that the ambush happened in the Ugbokolo area of Okpokwu LGA.
“We are investigating a suspected kidnapping involving a Hummer bus with registration number 14B-43BN. On receiving the report, police tactical teams, soldiers, and Benue State Community Volunteer Guards swiftly responded and began combing the surrounding forests,” the PPRO said.
One of the victims, identified as Paul Terna, managed to escape and was rescued by security operatives.
Authorities say additional reinforcements have been deployed to locate and safely recover the remaining victims.
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