The Police Command in Benue State has rescued 14 passengers of Benue Links, kidnapped by unknown gunmen on Thursday evening in Otukpo LGA of the state.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Sewuese Anene disclosed that on April 3, a bus was ambushed near Otukpo Burnt Bricks, killing the driver and one passenger.
She said the armed kidnappers thereafter took away the remaining 14 other passengers to an unknown destination.
The PRO said the command, in collaboration with the State Civil Protection Guard, rushed to the scene and found the driver and a passenger with gunshot injuries in the vehicle, while the kidnappers whisked others away.
The injured individuals were taken to the hospital, where a doctor confirmed that they had passed away.
“The team launched a search for the kidnapped victims within the nearby forest immediately.
“On April 4, at about 1500hrs, they sighted the bandits in the forest and engaged them in a gun duel. The superior fire power of the police subdued them, and they took to their heels, abandoning their captives.
“Unfortunately, they had inflicted matchet cuts on two of the victims before the rescue. Fourteen people were rescued and taken to a hospital for treatment. One person has died, and others are receiving treatment.
Anene said that the Commissioner of Police, Mr Steve Yabanet, commiserated with families of the deceased and pledged to bring the perpetuators to book.
She urged the people of Otukpo to report anyone with gunshot wounds to the Police, as many bandits were injured during the shootout.
NAN
