Three people suspected of kidnapping passengers in Benue State have been arrested by security forces. The suspects were taken into custody on Sunday, April 6, 2025, in Otukpo Local Government Area, located around Ogoli-Ugboju.

This arrest comes just days after a group of kidnappers killed two people and abducted 14 passengers in the same area. Fortunately, the police, together with the State Protection Guards, were able to rescue the passengers within 24 hours.

The three suspects arrested, identified as Ibrahim Salleh, Ashimu, and Abuh Umaru, are believed to be part of a larger gang responsible for the recent kidnappings. The arrests were made after security forces received tips about their location and tracked them down.

Maxwell Ogiri, the Chairman of Otukpo LG, confirmed that two more suspects are still on the run. He mentioned that security forces are actively searching for them and their possible accomplices.

Benue State Police spokesperson, Catherine Anene, also confirmed the ongoing operation and the arrests made so far.

This development follows a protest by Otukpo residents, who recently called for action to combat rising insecurity in the region.