The Benue State Police Command foiled a kidnap attempt on Christmas Day and rescued a victim unharmed. The incident happened along the Naka-Makurdi road, in Gwer West Local Government Area.
In a statement on Tuesday, the command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Sewuese Anene, confirmed the operation. She said officers attached to Operation Zenda responded swiftly to a distress call about the abduction.
According to her, the victim, a female resident of Naka, was kidnapped while returning from Christmas celebrations. The kidnappers tried to take her into the forest when the police intercepted them.
“On receiving the alert, our operatives moved in quickly. The suspects fled into the bush, abandoning the victim,” Anene said. She added that the woman was rescued unhurt and reunited with her family.
The police also recovered one motorcycle believed to have been used by the suspects. Anene said the command has launched a manhunt to track and arrest the fleeing criminals.
Commissioner of Police, George Chuku, praised the swift response of his officers and urged residents to remain vigilant during the festive season. He assured the public that the police would continue to provide adequate security.
He also encouraged citizens to report suspicious movements or criminal activities around them. “We are committed to ensuring safety and peace, especially during this festive period,” he said.
Meanwhile, the rescued victim thanked the police for their timely intervention. Her family also expressed gratitude, calling the officers’ action “a Christmas miracle.” Investigations into the incident continue.
