JAMB Candidates Among 14 Abducted by Suspected Bandits on Benue Highway
Suspected bandits have carried out a brazen abduction of passengers, including candidates for the ongoing Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board examination, along the Makurdi-Otukpo road in Benue State. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday night, April 15, has sent shockwaves through the region as security forces mobilize for rescue operations.
Details of the Attack
According to reports, the victims were traveling in a Benue Links bus from Makurdi to Otukpo when their vehicle was intercepted and attacked near Otukpo around 8pm. A source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, revealed that the bus was conveying approximately 18 passengers, most of whom were taken into the bush by the suspected bandits. The passengers were primarily young men and women heading to Otukpo to sit for the JAMB examination scheduled for Thursday.
"Two individuals, the driver and one passenger, managed to escape during the chaotic incident. Incidentally, the passengers were mainly young candidates who had traveled specifically to participate in the JAMB examination scheduled for today," the source stated, highlighting the targeted nature of the victims.
Police Confirmation and Response
The state Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, has confirmed the abduction, putting the number of kidnapped victims at 14. In a statement, Emenari detailed the ongoing efforts to address the crisis: "I am currently in Otukpo with all my team and Divisional Police Officers who are conducting operations in the bush, and I am personally leading this effort. What transpired was that a Benue Links bus carrying passengers en route to Otukpo was stopped and attacked by hoodlums, resulting in the kidnapping of 14 passengers, though one managed to escape."
He added that the command has immediately commenced an investigation into the incident, with a particular focus on the circumstances surrounding the journey. According to the Commissioner, Benue Links management has a strict policy against night travel, but the driver allegedly violated this by picking up passengers after official hours.
Investigation and Rescue Efforts
"However, as we proceed with our investigation, we are fully committed to ensuring the safe rescue of all victims," the CP emphasized, underscoring the urgency of the situation. The abduction has raised serious concerns about security on major highways in Benue State, especially for vulnerable groups like students traveling for academic purposes.
This incident underscores the persistent threat of banditry in the region and its impact on educational activities, with JAMB candidates now facing not only academic pressures but also grave security risks. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities as operations continue to secure the release of the abducted individuals.
