Two of the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination candidates kidnapped by gunmen along the Makurdi–Otukpo road in Benue State have escaped from their abductors.

 

 

 

The Benue State Police Command confirmed the development on Friday, April 17, adding that one suspect has been arrested in connection with the incident.

 

 

 

 

The victims were among passengers abducted on Wednesday night when gunmen ambushed a Benue Links bus was ambushed in Otukpo Local Government Area.

 

 

 

Spokesperson for the command, Udeme Edet said investigations identified the vehicle as a Toyota Hiace bus belonging to Benue Links, noting that tactical teams, including the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, have been deployed to track the abductors.

 

 

 

 

“The command has deployed several tactical teams and is working with other agencies to ensure the safe return of the victims,” she added.

 

 

 

Authorities have since clarified that not all passengers on board were UTME candidates, contrary to earlier reports.