Tension And Relief In Benue As Kidnapped UTME Students Regain Freedom

The Nigeria Police Force in Benue State has confirmed that two candidates sitting for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) have escaped after being abducted by kidnappers.

The students were among passengers on a commercial bus that was attacked while they were travelling to Otukpo to write the examination. Reports indicate that about 14 candidates were taken during the incident.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Udeme Edet, confirmed that two of the victims managed to regain their freedom, while efforts are ongoing to rescue others still being held.

She assured that security agencies are intensifying operations to secure the safe release of the remaining victims.

According to the police, a joint rescue effort involving multiple security units has been launched, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, working alongside other agencies to track down those responsible.

The command also revealed that one suspect has been arrested in connection with the attack, although further details were not disclosed as investigations continue.

Providing additional details, the police said the incident involved a Toyota Hiace bus with registration number BGT 234 S4, operated by Benue Links Limited.

Preliminary findings suggest that the driver violated company regulations by embarking on an unauthorised late-night trip and picking up passengers indiscriminately without issuing an official manifest, contrary to standard procedures.