The Nigeria Police Force has rescued all 18 passengers abducted during the April 15, 2026 attack on a Benue Links bus in Otukpo, Benue State, following a series of coordinated security operations.
The victims were freed in phases, with five initially rescued and the remaining 13 recovered during a targeted operation across the Amla Forest corridor and nearby communities.
Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid, confirmed the development in a statement, noting that the operation was driven by credible intelligence.
“The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a significant operational success with the rescue of all victims involved in the Otukpo kidnapping incident,” he said.
“Acting on actionable intelligence, operatives carried out clearance operations in the Amla Forest axis, leading to the safe recovery of the remaining victims.”
Among those rescued were eight students travelling to sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination in Otukpo.
“All 18 passengers have now been accounted for. They have undergone medical checks, are in stable condition, and will be reunited with their families after necessary debriefing,” Placid added.
During the operation, seven suspects were apprehended, three of whom have been identified as members of the kidnapping syndicate.
Placid stated, “The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing interrogation. Efforts are ongoing to track down other accomplices and dismantle the wider criminal network behind the attack.”
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, commended officers of the Benue State Command for their swift and professional response.
He also directed the усилment of security presence in the Otukpo area to forestall further criminal activities.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to safeguarding lives and property across the country. We urge members of the public to support ongoing operations by providing timely and credible information,” the police chief said.
