Nigeria: Kidnapping - Benue Police Rescue 18 Victims, Arrest 20 Suspects

What the report says

Benue State police said they rescued 18 kidnapped victims, arrested 20 suspects and recovered three AK-47 rifles, along with other weapons, during a series of intelligence-led operations across the state. The update was given by Commissioner of Police Cletus Nwadiogbu at the command headquarters in Makurdi, according to Leadership, which said the operations involved tactical teams, intelligence gathering and cooperation from other security agencies and local residents.

Among the main incidents cited was the rescue of 13 people abducted on the Otukpo-Adoka Road on August 14, 2026. Police said the victims were recovered after officers confronted suspected armed bandits in Amla-Icho Forest on August 16, causing the kidnappers to flee. The command also linked earlier operations in Tse-Udi and the Ayilamo area of Logo Local Government Area to the deaths of two suspects and the recovery of two AK-47 rifles.

Leadership reported additional arrests and recoveries in other parts of Benue, including a foiled robbery attempt in Gwer East, the recovery of a baby allegedly taken after delivery in Gboko, and the dismantling of a motorcycle and vehicle theft ring. Police also said several suspects were arrested in Vandeikya, Gwer West, Apa and Makurdi, with locally made firearms, ammunition and suspected criminal charms seized.

The police commissioner urged residents to share credible security information and warned people involved in illegal firearms activity that the state would not be a refuge for criminals. The developments matter because they reflect ongoing insecurity in parts of north-central Nigeria, where kidnapping, armed robbery and banditry remain persistent concerns.