Bandits Ambush Enugu-Abuja Bus, Abduct 14 Passengers

By Sunday Ameh

Suspected bandits have abducted 14 passengers travelling from Enugu State to Abuja after ambushing their commercial bus along the Ankpechi–Omutele axis of Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State.

The incident reportedly occurred on Thursday night when the gunmen intercepted the vehicle, forced the passengers into a nearby bush and abandoned the bus on the road.

The Benue State Police Command confirmed the attack on Friday, saying security operatives had launched a coordinated rescue operation following the incident.

According to the police spokesperson, DSP Orchia Peter Aondongu, operatives engaged the suspected kidnappers in a gun battle during the rescue operation, leading to the recovery of five victims.

Among those rescued was a four-year-old boy, while nine other passengers remained in the custody of the abductors as of the time of filing this report.

Aondongu disclosed that one of the rescued passengers sustained a gunshot injury during the operation. The victim was subsequently taken to a medical facility in Otukpo for treatment.
He said security operatives working with other agencies were intensifying efforts to locate the remaining nine victims and secure their safe release.

The police spokesperson stressed that the rescue operation was being conducted cautiously, with the safety of the abducted passengers remaining the priority of the security agencies.
The development has raised fresh concerns over the safety of travellers using roads across parts of Benue State, particularly routes linking the state with other parts of the country.

The Commissioner of Police in Benue State, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, acknowledged the concerns of the victims’ families and assured them that security agencies were making concerted efforts to rescue those still in captivity.

He also appealed to residents of communities around the affected area to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with credible information that could assist the ongoing operation.

The police urged members of the public to remain calm while the search for the remaining victims continues, promising to provide updates as the operation progresses.