The Nigerian police in Benue State have rescued nine persons who were abducted from a vehicle while traveling along the Ojano-Oglewu road, near Otukpo Local Government Area of the state.

The incident occurred on June 13, 2024, when gunmen ambushed a Benue Links vehicle carrying passengers from Onitsha to Makurdi.

According to a statement by SP Catherine Anene, the police public relations officer for the Benue State command, the assailants emerged from a nearby forest, shooting sporadically at the vehicle and forcing it to a stop.

The driver was killed in the process after sustaining fatal gunshot injuries, while the passengers were taken hostage.

Anene confirmed that the police responded promptly to the incident, rescuing nine kidnapped victims and apprehending some of the kidnappers involved.

“The driver of the said vehicle sustained gunshot injuries that led to his death, while the passengers were kidnapped.

“Nine victims were later rescued while investigation continued.”