The Benue State Government has commended security operatives for their swift response that led to the rescue of nine children kidnapped from Saint John Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon, Ado Local Council of the state, during a midnight prayer session.
The rescued children, comprising six girls and three boys, are currently receiving care and support.
Technical Adviser to the Governor on Media,Publicity and Strategic Communication, Mr Solomon Iorpev, said the governor received news of the rescue in high spirits.
He appreciated the effective collaboration between conventional security agencies and local vigilante groups, which ensured the safe return of the victims.
The governor emphasised the need to strengthen collaboration with federal security agencies, community leaders, traditional institutions and local security outfits to ensure peace, justice and harmonious coexistence.
He reassured residents of adequate measures to protect lives and property, advising them to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
Last Friday, the governor convened a high-level security meeting comprising the Idoma Traditional Council and top security officials in Otukpo, where a marching order was issued for the immediate release of the kidnapped victims.
Meanwhile, the Benue State Police Commandconfirmed the arrest of four suspects in connection with the abduction. In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, the Command said operatives of the Ado Division, acting on credible intelligence on February 11, 2026, arrested two suspects identified as Abubakar Jibril and Ashiru Ibrahim.
The suspects were reportedly found in possession of five rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.
According to the police, the suspects were subsequently handed over to the Inspector General of Police Intelligence Response Team for further investigation. Acting on follow-up intelligence, the team, in collaboration with tactical units of the Benue State Police Command, carried out a raid on February 14, 2026, at the hideout of one of the suspects.
The operation led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle and eight rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, as well as the arrest of two additional suspects believed to be key members of the kidnapping syndicate.
Police investigations have established that the four arrested suspects are directly linked to the abduction during the vigil.
The command disclosed that sustained coordinated search-and-rescue operations across the Ado axis and adjoining communities mounted pressure on the criminal network, leading to the safe release of the kidnapped victims, who were freed unhurt.
Efforts have been intensified to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate, as the Criminal Investigation Department and the Inspector General of Police Intelligence Response Team continue investigations.
The guardian news
