Police Arrest Three Suspected Kidnappers in Benue

Benue Police Capture Kidnappers After Passenger Abduction

Security operatives in Benue State have arrested three suspected kidnappers in Otukpo Local Government Area. The suspects, identified as Ibrahim Salleh, Ashimu, and Abuh Umaru, were apprehended on Sunday, April 6, 2025, around Ogoli-Ugboju.

This development follows a recent incident where gunmen hijacked a Benue Links bus, resulting in the deaths of the driver and a passenger, and the abduction of 14 others. The kidnapped passengers were rescued within 24 hours through a coordinated effort by the police and the State Civil Protection Guard. ​

The Chairman of Otukpo LGA, Maxwell Ogiri, confirmed the arrests and noted that the apprehended individuals are part of a five-member gang responsible for the recent kidnappings in the area. Efforts are ongoing to locate and apprehend the remaining two suspects and their collaborators. ​

The Benue State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, acknowledged the ongoing operations in Otukpo and confirmed that some suspects have been arrested.

These arrests come in the wake of increased security concerns in Otukpo, prompting residents to protest and demand action against the rising insecurity in the area.