Two Abducted UTME Candidates Escape in Benue

Two candidates sitting for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), who were abducted by gunmen along the Makurdi–Otukpo highway in Benue State, have successfully escaped from captivity.

Global Mirror News gathered that the incident occurred on Wednesday night when armed attackers ambushed a commercial vehicle conveying passengers in Otukpo Local Government Area.

Confirming the development on Friday, April 17, the Benue State Police Command disclosed that one suspect has been apprehended in connection with the attack, while efforts are ongoing to rescue other victims still in captivity.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Udeme Edet, the vehicle involved in the incident was identified as a Toyota Hiace bus operated by Benue Links. She noted that specialized tactical teams, including operatives from the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, have been deployed to trail the abductors and secure the release of the remaining victims.

“The command has deployed several tactical teams and is collaborating with other Security Agencies to ensure the safe return of those still held,” Edet stated.

Global Mirror News further reports that authorities have clarified earlier claims, noting that not all passengers in the attacked vehicle were UTME candidates, as initially reported.

Security operations in the area have been intensified as investigations continue.