Gunmen abduct 15 passengers on Makurdi–Otukpo highway, police launch search operation
By: Zagazola Makama
The Benue State Police Command says 15 passengers have been abducted by unknown gunmen along the Makurdi–Otukpo highway.
Sources said that the incident occurred on April 15, 2026, at about 8:30 p.m., when a Benue Links bus driver, identified as Peter Ikwe, reported the attack to the Divisional Police Officer in Otukpo.
The driver, who was conveying a Toyota Hiace bus with registration number BGT 224 SA from Makurdi to Otukpo, said he had 18 passengers on board when the vehicle was intercepted near the vicinity of Operation Whirl Stroke barracks.
According to the sources, the assailants blocked the road and forcefully whisked away 15 passengers into the surrounding bush, while others escaped the attack.
Following the report, the DPO mobilised patrol and tactical teams to the scene, while joint security units commenced a search of nearby bushes in an effort to rescue the victims and apprehend the attackers.
The command said the Anti-Kidnapping Unit has commenced investigation into the incident.
It added that further updates would be communicated as operations continue.
