Again, bandits abduct 14 passengers in Benue, kill two in fresh attack

Suspected bandits have abducted 14 passengers travelling from the Igede axis of Oju and Obi Local Government Areas in Benue State.

The victims were reportedly en route to the Southwest when their vehicle was intercepted along the Okpokwu axis at around 7 p.m. on Monday.

This incident comes less than 48 hours after nine worshippers were kidnapped during a night vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church, Ojije in Utonkon, Ado LGA.

Local sources told LEADERSHIP that two passengers were shot and killed instantly during the attack. One source, speaking from Makurdi, said, “They departed Iheijwo Market in Oju LGA around 7 p.m. The driver was travelling through Utonkon-Ojapo/Okpoga road when the kidnappers stopped them and took 15 passengers into the bush. One person was shot dead when the driver refused to stop.”

Confirming the attack, Oju Local Government Chairman Jackson Ominyi said on Tuesday that security officials informed him of the abduction. “I have been trying to reach my colleague in Okpokwu LGA, but I am yet to connect. I have, however, contacted personnel of the Directorate of State Security Service in the area. Two passengers were reportedly killed while the bandits whisked away the remaining passengers,” he said.

The Police Public Relations Officer in Benue State, DSP Udeme Edet, declined to confirm or deny the report, stating only, “I will get back to you on this information,” and had not provided a response at the time of filing this report.

The spate of attacks has raised fresh concerns over worsening security across Benue State, with residents increasingly fearful of venturing out for daily activities.

Details are still emerging.