Bandits kill 2, abduct 13 in attack on Benue Links bus

Tragedy struck on Thursday evening in Ikobi village, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, as suspected bandits launched a deadly ambush on an 18-seater commercial bus operated by Benue Links Nigeria Limited.

According to eyewitnesses, the bus, which was en route from Makurdi to Otukpo, came under heavy gunfire near the Otukpo Burnt Bricks area.

The attackers, believed to have been lying in wait, opened fire on the vehicle, instantly killing the driver. A passenger also succumbed to fatal injuries sustained in the attack.

The assailants then forcefully marched the remaining 13 passengers into the nearby forest. In a heartbreaking twist, a toddler was reportedly spared and left behind by the kidnappers.

The attacked vehicle, bearing registration number PP512, was left abandoned at the scene, marking yet another grim reminder of the growing insecurity along Nigeria’s highways.

In a statement issued through the company’s information officer, Johnson Ehi, the management of Benue Links confirmed the incident and expressed sorrow over the tragic development.

According to him, “Regrettably, the driver of the 18-seater bus, Samuel Agege, and a front-seat passenger were fatally shot by the attackers. While the gunmen abduct the remaining passengers.”

He further explained that one passenger had alighted earlier in Taraku before the attack, and three individuals managed to escape the scene.

“The management of Benue Links Nigeria Limited extends its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and stands in solidarity with those whose loved ones are in captivity,” the statement read.

“We assure the general public that the management are in constant communication with security agencies, who are making concerted efforts to rescue the abducted passengers.

“The management however appreciate the swift response of the law enforcement agencies and express confidence in their ongoing efforts to rescue the abducted passengers.”

Attempts to reach the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Catherine Anene, for comments were unsuccessful, as she did not respond to calls or messages as of press time.