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In a dramatic dawn operation earlier today, officers of the Benue State Police Command successfully thwarted a deadly ambush and abduction attempt along the ever-restive Adoka–Otukpo Road in Benue State.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at about 12:30 a.m. when a gang of armed bandits laid siege on the highway, blocking vehicles and attempting to forcibly abduct passengers.
According to security sources, the gunmen had already begun dragging travellers out of their vehicles when the Divisional Police Officer in charge of the axis received a distress call and immediately mobilised patrol teams and tactical units. The swift response caught the assailants off-guard.
A fierce exchange of gunfire ensued, forcing the bandits to abandon their victims and flee into the surrounding bush. No passenger was taken, and all travellers were safely rescued and moved to the nearest police station for documentation and debriefing.
Several victims who sustained gunshot wounds and other injuries during the chaos were immediately rushed to St. Charles Hospital, Adoka, where they are receiving urgent medical attention.
As at the time of this report, a massive bush-combing operation is ongoing to track down and apprehend the fleeing attackers. The State Criminal Investigation Department has also launched a full-scale investigation into the incident.
The Benue State Police Command has further beefed up security along major highways in the state and urged motorists and residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movement or activity to the nearest security formation.
Today’s successful rescue is a testament to improved response time and coordination among security agencies in Benue, offering a glimmer of hope to travellers who have long dreaded that notorious stretch of road.
We commend the gallantry of the officers involved and wish the injured victims quick recovery.
