Police in Benue State have confirmed the rescue of the remaining 13 passengers abducted by gunmen earlier in the week, bringing an end to the kidnapping incident involving a state-owned transport bus.
The Benue State Police Command disclosed the development in a message to journalists on Sunday, adding that the Commissioner of Police would brief the media later in the day on details of the operation.
The victims were among passengers attacked on Wednesday night when armed men intercepted a Benue Links bus, robbed occupants, and took several of them into the bush.
Authorities had earlier confirmed that two victims escaped from captivity, while security operatives intensified search-and-rescue efforts in forested areas, including Amla Forest.
Police also announced the arrest of seven suspects in connection with the abduction, following a coordinated operation involving multiple security agencies.
Meanwhile, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board clarified that none of its candidates were among those kidnapped, countering earlier reports linking the victims to students travelling for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.
The rescued victims have since been taken to Makurdi, where they are expected to be presented to Governor Hyacinth Alia.
Further details of the rescue operation are expected during the official police briefing.
