At least two travellers were shot dead and 14 others reportedly kidnapped at Utonkon-Ojapo/Okpoga road, in Ado local government area of Benue State when unknown Gunmen attacked them in a bus.
The incident occured less than 24 hours after 9 worshippers were kidnapped at St. John’s Catholic Church, Ojije, Utonkon, in the local government while observing a night vigil.
New Telegraph gathered from the local inhabitants that the incident took place around 7pm, while they were said to be traveling from Oju local government area to the Western part of the country for work.
A witness told our correspondent that “they departed Iheijwo Market, Oju LGA, around 7pm with the driver passing through Utonkon-Ojapo/Okpoga road, Ado LGA, Benue State, when the kidnappers stopped them and took 14 passengers into the bush. Two persons were shot dead when the driver refused to stop.
“They collected their phones to prevent them from contacting their relatives. The bus is at Utonkon Police Station currently, but the passengers’ whereabouts are unknown”.
Chairman of Oju local government area, Mr. Jackson Ominyi, who confirmed the incident to journalists, said two persons were shot dead while another two were rescued through the efforts of his Okpokwu LG counterpart.
“I commend the effort of the Okpokwu Chairman for ensuring the rescue of two persons so far and also, his assurance to rescue all remaining abductees.
The Police could not be reached for reaction as at press time.
