Police operatives in Benue State have successfully disrupted an attempted kidnapping and rescued a traveller without injury following a rapid overnight response to a distress call.
According to the Benue State Police Command, the incident occurred around 3:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 25, 2025, along the Tiortu axis, as the victim, Akume Geoffrey, was travelling from Gboko to Makurdi.
How the incident unfolded
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, said the victim was intercepted on the highway by armed men suspected to be kidnappers. The assailants reportedly forcefully abducted him and attempted to move him into a nearby forest.
Upon receiving a distress alert, police operatives immediately mobilised, launching intensive patrols and a coordinated search of the surrounding area.
DSP Edet explained that the suspects abandoned their victim after sighting the police patrol team and hearing approaching sirens, fleeing into the forest to evade arrest.
Victim rescued, investigations ongoing
The rescued victim was taken to Abinse Police Station, where he was debriefed by the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Ifeanyi Emenari. He was later reunited with his family.
Police say efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects, as investigations into the attempted abduction continue.
Police reassure residents
CP Ifeanyi Emenari commended the operatives involved for their swift response, professionalism and commitment to duty. He reassured residents that the command remains fully committed to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
The commissioner also disclosed that security measures have been intensified during the festive period, including increased patrols, stop-and-search operations and intelligence-led policing in strategic locations. He urged members of the public to remain alert and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security agency.
Source: Africa Publicity
