Three siblings travelling from Abuja to Benue State with the remains of their late mother have reportedly been abducted by suspected gunmen along the Ogobia–Otukpo Road in Ohimini Local Government Area of the state.
The victims were said to be conveying their mother’s body to Iklenyi community in Okpokwu Local Government Area for burial when they were ambushed in the early hours of Saturday, July 18, between Omutele and Ankpechi villages in Oglewu District.
Residents revealed that sporadic gunshots were heard between 3:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m., forcing many to flee the area in fear.
Eyewitnesses said the family’s vehicle had earlier developed a mechanical fault, leaving them stranded until about 2:00 a.m. Shortly after resuming their journey, they reportedly ran into the armed assailants, who abducted the three siblings.
Chairman of Ohimini Local Government Area, Gabriel Adole, confirmed the incident, saying he was heading to the scene to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the attack.
“Yes, I’m going to the scene now to ascertain what really happened,” Adole said.
As of the time of filing this report, the Benue State Police Command had yet to officially confirm the incident. Efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful, as calls and a text message sent to her went unanswered.
Police are expected to provide further details as investigations continue.
