Security operatives have launched a large-scale rescue operation to free one of three siblings who was kidnapped by armed gunmen while transporting their late mother’s body from Abuja to Benue State for burial.
The tragic incident has shocked residents after the kidnappers released two of the siblings and abandoned the corpse of their mother, while keeping the third victim in captivity.
Family Attacked While Travelling for Burial
According to reports, the family was travelling to Iklenyi Community in Okpokwu Local Government Area to bury their late mother when gunmen ambushed their vehicle at about 4:00 a.m. on Saturday.
The attack happened between Omutele and Ankpechi along the Ogobia–Otukpo Road in Oglewu District of Ohimini Local Government Area, an area that has witnessed repeated security concerns in recent months.
The armed attackers abducted all three siblings along with their mother’s corpse before taking them into the surrounding forest.
Two Siblings Freed, Mother’s Body Abandoned
In a development that has brought mixed emotions to the affected family, the kidnappers reportedly released two of the siblings later on Saturday night.
They also abandoned the remains of the deceased woman, allowing the family to proceed with her burial. However, one sibling remains in the custody of the abductors.
A resident of the community, identified simply as Elijah, confirmed the incident while speaking to journalists.
“The kidnappers released two siblings and dumped the corpse on Saturday night so they could bury their mother. But one of them is still being held,” he said.
The motive behind the release of two victims while retaining one person has not been disclosed.
Security Agencies Intensify Search for Remaining Victim
Chairman of Ohimini Local Government Area, Gabriel Adole, confirmed that security agencies have already launched a coordinated rescue operation.
According to him, the remains of the deceased woman have since been taken to Okpokwu Local Government Area for burial, while security personnel continue combing nearby forests in search of the remaining abducted sibling.
Adole stated that the operation involves multiple security agencies working together to locate the kidnappers and secure the victim’s release.
He explained that police officers, soldiers, and other conventional security personnel have been deployed into the forest as efforts intensify.
Police Yet to Receive Official Report
When contacted for an update, the spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, said the command had not yet received an official report from the Divisional Police Officer serving Ohimini Local Government Area.
The police spokesperson indicated that the command was still awaiting formal details before providing further information on the incident.
Growing Security Concerns Along Benue Roads
The latest abduction has once again highlighted growing concerns over attacks on travellers along several roads in Benue State.
Residents have repeatedly raised alarm over the activities of armed criminals operating on highways connecting communities, with many calling for stronger security presence and improved surveillance to protect commuters.
As rescue efforts continue, family members and residents remain hopeful that the remaining abducted sibling will be safely rescued by security operatives.
