Armed Gang Abducts FRSC Officer, Neighbour in Benue

Gunmen struck in Otukpo, Benue State, abducting a Federal Road Safety Corps officer, Oketa Ejembi, and a neighbour on the night of November 9.

Eyewitnesses said about five armed men stormed a residence at Asa 1 along Otobi Akpa Road, breaking down the door and forcibly taking the victims.

The officer’s son, Daniel Oketa, quickly alerted police around 9:43 p.m., prompting the Divisional Police Officer to deploy patrol and tactical units to the scene.

The search for the kidnapped duo is ongoing.

This latest incident adds to a growing list of abductions in Benue, where criminal gangs continue to exploit weak security coverage in residential areas. Otukpo, a major commercial hub, has seen an uptick in violent crime, leaving residents on edge.

While police have intensified patrols, no arrests have been made, and no group has claimed responsibility. The FRSC has expressed concern over the safety of its personnel, with calls mounting for stronger collaboration between security agencies to curb the menace.

As families wait anxiously for news, one thing remains clear: until decisive action is taken, Benue’s roads and homes will remain hunting grounds for criminals. The clock is ticking for the safe return of Oketa Ejembi and his neighbour.