At least two travellers have been killed and 14 others abducted following a deadly attack by suspected gunmen along a major highway in Benue State.
The incident occurred on Monday evening along the Okpokwu axis, as passengers were travelling from the Igede area of Oju and Obi Local Government Areas towards the South-West. According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants blocked the road, stopped the vehicle conveying the victims and opened fire without warning.
Two passengers were reportedly shot dead on the spot, while the attackers forced the remaining occupants out of the vehicle. The gunmen then marched 14 of the travellers into nearby bushes, leaving the others traumatised at the scene.
Residents described the attack as swift and brutal, saying the gunmen operated for several minutes without immediate security intervention. The incident triggered panic among motorists and locals, with several vehicles turning back to avoid the route.
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the attack, stating that security operatives have been deployed to the area to rescue the abducted victims and track down the perpetrators. Police said a manhunt is ongoing, with support from other security agencies and local vigilante groups.
The latest attack adds to growing concerns over persistent insecurity on Benue highways, where travellers have increasingly been targeted for kidnapping and violent attacks. Community leaders have again called on the government to strengthen security patrols and surveillance along major road corridors in the state.
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