Terror on the Road: Gunmen Abduct Benue Links Passengers in Okpokwu LGA – Police Launch Rescue Operation
In yet another disturbing incident that highlights the growing security challenges in Nigeria, a group of unidentified gunmen intercepted a commercial bus along the Eke axis in Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue State, kidnapping an unknown number of passengers. The terrifying attack occurred at approximately 6:30 PM on Sunday, June 22, 2025, sending shockwaves through the community and deepening fears among travelers in the region.
According to reliable community sources, the assailants ambushed a Hummer bus operated by the state-owned Benue State Transport Company, popularly known as Benue Links. After forcing the bus to a halt, the gunmen reportedly robbed the passengers at gunpoint before dragging several of them into the surrounding bushland.
Eyewitness Accounts and Community Reactions
Although the exact number of passengers abducted remains unknown at the time of this report, residents of the area have expressed deep concern over the growing spate of insecurity. One local resident, who preferred not to be named for safety reasons, told NaijaRush:
“This is not the first time this kind of thing is happening around here. The roads have become unsafe, especially in the evenings. People are now afraid to travel, even with a government-owned transport company like Benue Links.”
The situation has sparked outrage and anxiety, particularly among families of the kidnapped victims and commuters who regularly use the Ugbokolo-Eke route. The fact that the attack occurred in broad daylight — during peak travel hours — has left many questioning the effectiveness of existing security patrols in the area.
Police Confirm Incident and Launch Search Operation
Confirming the incident, the Benue State Police Command stated on Monday, June 23, that they have begun a coordinated operation to rescue the kidnapped passengers. The spokesperson of the command, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Udeme Edet, issued a statement detailing the swift response by law enforcement and local security outfits.
“We are investigating a suspected kidnapping where a Hummer bus with registration number 14B-43BN was parked by the road in Ugbokolo, Okpokwu LGA,” DSP Edet explained.
He added that police tactical teams, alongside military units and members of the Benue State Community Volunteer Guard (BSCVG), were quickly mobilized to the scene of the incident.
“On receipt of the information, police tactical teams, military, and Benue State Protection Guard arrived at the scene,” he said.
“They combed the bush and rescued one Paul Terna, who escaped from the hands of the suspected kidnappers.”
The police have promised that additional reinforcement has been deployed to aid the ongoing search-and-rescue operation in the dense forest areas surrounding the location.
“Additional reinforcement has been sent to locate other passengers as soon as possible,” DSP Edet assured.
Victim Rescue and Ongoing Search
In what could only be described as a miraculous escape, one of the kidnapped victims, Mr. Paul Terna, managed to flee from the abductors during the commotion. He was later found by security operatives and is currently assisting the police with information that may help in tracking the kidnappers and locating the other missing passengers.
Insecurity on Benue Roads: A Worrying Trend
This latest incident adds to a disturbing pattern of kidnappings and attacks on highways in Benue State and across Nigeria. Over the past few years, major roads in the Middle Belt region have become flashpoints for violent crimes, especially banditry, kidnappings, and armed robbery.
Benue, known for its agricultural richness and warm hospitality, has increasingly found itself in the headlines for tragic reasons. From attacks on farming communities to ambushes on highways, the once peaceful state is now a hotbed of insecurity.
Transportation services such as Benue Links, which have historically provided safe and affordable travel for residents, are now becoming targets for criminal gangs, raising questions about whether enough is being done to protect public infrastructure and the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
Government Response and the Need for Action
In response to the growing insecurity, the Benue State Government has in the past set up local security outfits such as the Benue State Community Volunteer Guard to assist in maintaining peace. However, Sunday’s incident raises critical concerns about the effectiveness of these security measures, especially on major transportation routes.
Security analysts and civil society groups have repeatedly called on both the state and federal governments to take urgent and strategic action to curb the rising tide of violence. Suggestions have ranged from deploying drones for surveillance, increasing the presence of joint military-police patrols, to equipping local vigilante groups with modern technology and better training.
The Human Cost of Insecurity
Beyond the statistics and official statements, the real victims are families torn apart, passengers living in fear, and communities disrupted by acts of terror. The trauma experienced by those who were kidnapped — and the uncertainty felt by their families — cannot be quantified.
One family member who spoke to NaijaRush on the condition of anonymity said:
“We haven’t heard from our brother since he boarded that bus. We are praying and hoping he is safe wherever he is. We just want the government to do everything possible to bring him back.”
What’s Next?
As of now, the police and their security partners continue their search in the forests surrounding Ugbokolo and Eke. While the successful rescue of one victim provides a ray of hope, the safety and recovery of the remaining passengers remains a top priority.
Residents and travelers have been advised to remain vigilant, avoid late-evening travel, and report any suspicious activity to local authorities. The Benue State Police Command has also assured the public that updates will be provided as the situation develops.
Final Thoughts
The Benue Links bus attack and abduction in Okpokwu LGA is a grim reminder of the deepening security crisis in Nigeria. It calls for urgent action, robust coordination between security agencies, and a firm political will to end the reign of terror on Nigerian highways.
Until then, the people of Benue and travelers across Nigeria must navigate their daily lives with caution, prayer, and a glimmer of hope that one day, peace and safety will return to their roads.
