Thirteen passengers of Benue Links Transport Company who were kidnapped last week at Eke in Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue State have regained their freedom following a coordinated rescue operation by security operatives and local vigilantes.

Naijaonpoint reports that the Chairman of Okpokwu LGA, Adah Inalegwu, confirmed the development on Sunday while speaking to Channels Television.

According to Inalegwu, the victims were rescued in batches. He revealed that two of the passengers were freed on Saturday after security personnel intensified search operations across the forested region.

He added that local youths from neighbouring Kogi State were also mobilised to support the operation, putting additional pressure on the abductors.

Inalegwu also praised Governor Hyacinth Alia for providing logistical support that strengthened surveillance and tracking efforts.

The rescued passengers are currently undergoing profiling and medical checks and are expected to be reunited with their families soon.

Naijaonpoint had earlier reported that suspected gunmen, last Sunday, attacked a Benue Links commercial bus, robbing passengers and abducting several victims into the nearby bush.

The incident occurred at Eke community, along the Otukpo-Otukpa road, at about 6:30 pm, throwing the area into panic.

The attackers laid an ambush for the bus, which was conveying passengers and bore the registration number 14B-143BN.