By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi
The Benue State Police Command has successfully rescued a kidnapped victim, Mr. Akume Geoffrey, unhurt and without the payment of any ransom, following a swift security operation along the Gboko–Makurdi road.The rescue occurred at Tiotyu after armed men suspected to be kidnappers intercepted Mr. Geoffrey while he was travelling from Gboko to Makurdi.
According to the police, the prompt response of operatives prevented the suspects from taking the victim deeper into a nearby forest.In a press statement issued on Friday, December 26, 2025, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Benue State Command, DSP Udeme Edet, said the command received a distress alert shortly after the incident occurred. “Upon receipt of the distress information, operatives of the Benue State Police Command swiftly swung into action and commenced intensive patrols and a coordinated search of the area,” the statement said.
DSP Edet explained that the suspects abandoned the victim and fled upon sighting the police patrol team and hearing the sound of sirens. The swift intervention, she noted, prevented the kidnappers from escaping with the victim into the forest.“ The victim, who escaped from the fleeing kidnappers, was successfully rescued by the police patrol team unhurt and without the payment of any ransom,” the statement added. Mr. Geoffrey was subsequently taken to the Abinsi Police Station, where he was debriefed by the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Ifeanyi Emenari. He was later reunited with his family.Commending the officers involved in the operation, CP Emenari praised their professionalism, courage, and rapid response. He described the rescue as a demonstration of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
The Commissioner reassured residents of Benue State that the police remain resolute in combating crime and criminality, particularly kidnapping and other violent offences.CP Emenari disclosed that patrols, stop-and-search operations, and intelligence-led policing have been intensified across strategic locations in the state to deter criminal activities and enhance public safety.He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police stations or security formations.
According to the statement, efforts are currently ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects involved in the attempted abduction.The Benue State Police Command reiterated its commitment to working with communities to strengthen security and ensure a safer environment for residents and travellers across the state.
