Police Rescue Eight Kidnap Victims, Including Priest, in Benue

The police in Benue State have rescued eight kidnap victims. This includes Rev. Fr. John Otache, a Catholic priest from Otukpo Diocese.

Peter Aondongu, the police spokesperson, shared this news on Monday. He made the information available to journalists in Makurdi, the state capital.

The statement mentioned that two suspects were arrested during the rescue operation.

Aondongu explained that the priest and the other seven victims were kidnapped last Tuesday. They were returning from a village market along the Ugbokolo, Ajegbe, Awume Road, before reaching Ipiga Village in Ohimini Local Government Area.

The statement said, "Upon receipt of the report, operatives of the Command, in conjunction with personnel of the Police Mobile Force and the Benue State Civil Protection Guards, were immediately mobilised to the area and launched a coordinated rescue operation."

The operation was successful. Eight victims were rescued, with two saved on 16th October 2026 and the other six on 18th October 2026.

During the rescue, the police arrested two suspects named Echefu Emmanuel and Obonyilor Emmanuel.

The rescued victims were taken to the Federal University of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital in Otukpo. They will receive medical examination and care.

Aondongu said the arrested suspects are helping the police with their investigation. He added that efforts are ongoing to catch other members of the criminal gang and ensure justice.

State Commissioner of Police Cletus Nwadiogbu praised the Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu and the Assistant IG of the Police Mobile Force. He thanked them for their support in fighting violent crime in the state.

The Commissioner also commended the police operatives for their quick response, professionalism, and dedication to protecting lives and property.

The police command reassured residents of their commitment to conducting intelligence-led operations. They want to prevent criminals from disturbing the peace and safety of the state.

Finally, the command urged the public to continue providing timely and credible information to help with ongoing police operations.