Police in Nigeria’s central Benue state have rescued 18 passengers abducted from a bus and arrested seven suspects.
Gunmen seized the travellers on April 15 along the Makurdi–Otukpo road in southern Benue state, authorities said earlier in the week.
Eight of the abducted passengers were students travelling for university entrance examinations, heightening public concern across the country said officials.
Police spokesperson Udeme Edet said the hostages were freed after coordinated operations involving multiple security agencies in Benue state.
All 18 rescued passengers are safe and in stable condition following medical checks, according to police statement Monday released said.
Benue Governor Hyacinth Alia urged academic authorities to reschedule examinations for affected students among the rescued victims he said statement.
Nigeria has long faced persistent abductions by militants and criminal gangs seeking ransom across several regions authorities say officials say.
The Benue case drew national attention because many victims were students preparing for important university entrance examinations said reports nationwide.
The rescue brings relief to families in Benue where insecurity continues to cast a long shadow authorities said Monday report.
