The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the rescue of all 18 passengers abducted from a Benue Links bus in Otukpo, bringing an end to days of uncertainty following the April 15 kidnapping.

The breakthrough came after a series of intelligence-led operations carried out by operatives of the Benue State Command across the Amla Forest corridor and surrounding communities—areas believed to be hideouts for.criminal gangs.

Police had earlier secured the release of five victims shortly after the incident. The remaining 13 passengers were freed during the latest operation, marking a complete recovery of everyone involved.

Among those rescued are eight students who were travelling to Otukpo to sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, a detail that had heightened public concern in the days following the abduction.

Force spokesperson Anthony Placid said all victims have received medical attention and are in stable condition.

They are expected to reunite with their families after undergoing standard debriefing procedures.

The operation also led to the arrest of seven suspects, three of whom have already been identified as members of the kidnapping syndicate.

Authorities say investigations are ongoing to track down other accomplices and dismantle the wider network behind the attack.

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, commended officers involved in the rescue mission, describing their efforts as professional and courageous.

He has also ordered increased security presence in the Otukpo axis to prevent further incidents and reassure residents of their safety.

While the successful rescue has been widely welcomed, the incident once again highlights ongoing security concerns along key transit routes, where passengers remain vulnerable to attacks.

The police urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information, noting that community cooperation remains critical in tackling crime.