Thirteen passengers who were kidnapped while travelling in a Benue Links vehicle at Eke, located in Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue State, have regained their freedom following a coordinated rescue operation.
The rescue, confirmed on Sunday by the Okpokwu LGA Chairman, Adah Inalegwu, was the result of a joint effort between the police and local vigilante groups.
Speaking to Channels Television, Inalegwu explained that security operatives and vigilantes intensified their search by combing through the forest, which led to the rescue of two victims on Saturday.
He added that the involvement of youths from neighbouring Kogi State further escalated the pressure on the kidnappers, ultimately forcing them to release the remaining eleven victims.
“The joint operations led by the police and members of vigilantes in that area mounted pressure, combing the forest,” he said.
“Youths enlisted the service of youths from neighbouring Kogi State, leading to increased pressure, which made the kidnappers abandon the remaining eleven victims at Oando village at about 4.00 pm on Sunday.”
Inalegwu also acknowledged the support of the state governor, saying, “The provision of logistics by Governor Hyacinth Alia, with improved security surveillance and tracking, led to the rescue of the victims.”
The rescued passengers are currently undergoing profiling procedures and will be reunited with their families soon.