One killed as security operatives rescue abducted passengers in Benue

A joint patrol team made up of the police, military and vigilante operatives has rescued three kidnap victims in Otukpa, Ogbadibo LGA of Benue state.

Sewuese Anene, Benue police spokesperson, announced the development in a statement issued on Wednesday.

The police said the security personnel got information that a vehicle en route Otukpa-Onitsha was attacked by suspected kidnappers who abducted some passengers.

The police said the joint patrol team operating within the area moved to the scene for a rescue operation on Tuesday.

“After an intense gun duel, the kidnappers abandoned the vehicle and took to their heels. Three victims were rescued and the bus was recovered,” the police spokesperson said.

“While chasing the kidnappers into a nearby forest suspected to be their hideout, they came across one Peter Ejembi, a member of the Benue State Volunteer Guard, who paid the supreme price. His body has been deposited at Bethel morgue, Otukpa.”

Anene added that Wale Abass, Benue commissioner of police, has deployed an additional team for further operations in the area.

Members of the community were advised to provide necessary information to security operatives of threats within their areas.