gunmen intercepted a commercial bus in the Okpokwu axis of Benue State, killing two people and abducting 14 others.

The Benue State Police Command confirmed the incident today, noting that security agencies have launched an investigation to rescue the remaining victims.

​Location: The attack occurred along the Utonkon–Ojapo/Okpoga Road within the Okpokwu Local Government Area (LGA).​The Attack: The victims were passengers traveling from the Igede axis (Oju and Obi LGAs) toward the South-West. At approximately 7:00 p.m., armed men—reportedly wearing army uniforms—intercepted the vehicle. When the driver attempted to evade them, the gunmen opened fire, killing two passengers on the spot.​The Abduction: A total of 14 passengers were initially whisked into the bush. However, the Chairman of Oju LGA, Jackson Ominyi, stated that two people have since been rescued, leaving 12 passengers still in captivity.

This abduction is part of a spike in violence in Southern Benue over the past few days:​Church Attack: Just 24 hours prior, nine worshippers were kidnapped during a night vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Ado LGA.​Herder Attack: Separate reports indicate a deadly herder attack in Tuutuu (Otukpo LGA) occurring around the same time, which claimed five more lives.

The Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, has assured the public that tactical units and local vigilantes are combing the area. The abandoned bus used by the travelers is currently being held at the Utonkon Police Station.