Two Abducted UTME students Escape as Police Intensify Rescue Efforts in Benue Bus Kidnap
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed that two passengers abducted from a commercial bus earlier this week have escaped from their captors, as efforts intensify to rescue the remaining victims.
EONS Intelligence reports that about 14 candidates travelling to Otukpo for their examination centres in the ongoing Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) were among those abducted.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Udeme Edet, disclosed that investigations revealed the vehicle involved was a Toyota Hiace bus with registration number BGT 234 S4 belonging to Benue Links Limited.
Police also confirmed that one suspect has been arrested in connection with the incident.
According to the statement, the driver reportedly violated company policy by embarking on an unauthorised late-night journey and picked up passengers indiscriminately along the route without issuing a formal manifest, contrary to standard operating procedures.
Authorities further clarified that earlier reports suggesting all passengers were UTME candidates were inaccurate.
The police added that security operatives have launched a coordinated operation to locate and rescue the remaining victims.
“The Command has deployed several tactical teams, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, and is working with other sister agencies to track down the perpetrators and ensure the safe return of the victims,” the statement said.
The Command assured the public that the situation is being closely monitored, adding that efforts are ongoing to apprehend those responsible and bring them to justice.
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