On October 18, 2026, police in Benue State rescued a Catholic priest and seven other individuals who had been abducted on October 13 while traveling from a market in Ohimini Local Government Area; two suspects were arrested and the victims were taken to a hospital for treatment.
The abduction took place on Tuesday, 13 October 2026, when armed men seized the priest and seven civilians on the Ugbokolo–Ajegbe–Awume Road before reaching Ipiga village. [Benue State Police](https://bspolice.gov.ng) Public Relations Officer DSP Peter Aondongu said two suspects, identified as Echefu Emmanuel and Obonyilor Emmanuel, were detained during the rescue. The victims were released in two stages: two on 16 October and the remaining six on 18 October. Aondongu added that the suspects are cooperating with investigators while police continue to hunt other gang members. State Commissioner of Police Cletus Nwadiogbu praised the operation and highlighted support from the [Inspector-General of Police](https://www.npf.gov.ng/igp) Olatunji Rilwan Disu, stating, "We commend the swift response of our operatives."
**What happened to the rescued victims?**
The rescued individuals were promptly transferred to the [Federal University of Health Sciences Teaching Hospital, Otukpo](https://fuhsuth.edu.ng) for medical examination and treatment. Medical staff attended to injuries sustained during the ordeal and provided necessary care before releasing the survivors to their families.
**How are authorities responding?**
Police officials confirmed that the two arrested suspects are assisting investigators, and efforts are being intensified to locate additional members of the kidnapping gang. CP Cletus Nwadiogbu reiterated the command’s commitment to intelligence‑led operations aimed at curbing kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state. He urged residents to share credible information on suspicious movements to bolster security initiatives.