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Two passengers abducted by gunmen along the Makurdi–Otukpo road in Benue State have successfully escaped from their captors, providing a glimmer of hope amid ongoing rescue efforts. The victims were among those taken when a Benue Links bus conveying passengers—many of them candidates for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME)—was attacked on Wednesday evening. They are now safe and in police custody. 
The Benue State Police Command confirmed the development and disclosed that one suspect has been arrested in connection with the incident. Authorities also revealed that tactical units, including anti-kidnapping teams, have been deployed to track down the abductors and rescue the remaining victims. The attack occurred near the Benue Burnt Bricks axis in Otukpo Local Government Area, where gunmen ambushed the vehicle and forced several passengers into nearby forests. 
The victims were part of a group of about 14 passengers abducted during the incident, most of whom were young people travelling to sit for the UTME. Investigations also showed that the bus driver allegedly violated company policy by embarking on an unauthorised night journey, which may have exposed passengers to the attack. Security agencies say search operations are ongoing, with efforts intensified to secure the safe return of those still in captivity and bring the perpetrators to justice. 
