Benue Government has lauded security operatives in the state for their swift response leading to the rescue of nine children kidnapped from Saint John Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon, Ado Local Council of the state, during a midnight prayer session.
Newsbuka reports that the rescued children, comprising six girls and three boys, are currently receiving care and support.
Technical Adviser to the Governor on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication, Mr Solomon Iorpev, said the governor appreciates the effective collaboration between conventional security agencies and local vigilante groups, which ensured the safe return of the victims.
According to him, the Governor emphasised the need to strengthen collaboration with federal security agencies, community leaders, traditional institutions and local security outfits to ensure peace, justice and harmonious coexistence.
He re-assured residents of adequate measures to protect lives and property, advising them to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
Similarly, the Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of four suspects in connection with the abduction.
In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, the Command said operatives of the Ado Division, acting on credible intelligence on February 11, 2026, arrested two suspects identified as Abubakar Jibril and Ashiru Ibrahim.
The suspects were reportedly found in possession of five rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.
According to the police, the suspects were subsequently handed over to the Inspector General of Police Intelligence Response Team for further investigation.
The command also disclosed that sustained co-ordinated search-and-rescue operations across the Ado axis and adjoining communities mounted pressure on the criminal network, leading to the safe release of the kidnapped victims, who were freed unhurt.
Gov Alia Lauds Security Operatives for Rescuing 9 Kidnapped Children
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