Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of four suspects linked to the abduction of worshippers during a night vigil at St. John Catholic Church in Ojeji community, Ado Local Government Area, and announced the safe release of all victims.
In a statement issued by the Command, police said operatives of the Ado Division acted on credible intelligence on February 11, 2026, leading to the arrest of two primary suspects identified as Abubakar Jibril and Ashiru Ibrahim. The arrests, according to authorities, marked a significant breakthrough in efforts to dismantle the network behind the attack.
The incident occurred during a night vigil at St. John Catholic Church, Ojeji, in Ado Local Government Area, when gunmen reportedly stormed the premises and abducted several worshippers. The attack triggered fear among residents and renewed concerns over the security of religious gatherings in parts of Benue State.
Police said subsequent investigations and coordinated operations led to the arrest of two additional suspects believed to be connected to the crime. The Command did not immediately disclose the identities of the remaining suspects but indicated that ongoing interrogation and intelligence analysis are expected to yield further leads.
Authorities confirmed that all kidnapped victims have been rescued unharmed. While details surrounding the conditions of their release were not elaborated, police officials described the outcome as the result of sustained operational pressure and intelligence-driven tactics.
The abduction had drawn condemnation from community leaders and religious groups, who described the attack as an assault on both faith and public safety. Benue State, like several parts of Nigeria’s Middle Belt, has faced recurring security challenges ranging from banditry and kidnapping to communal violence, often straining local law enforcement resources.
In its statement, the Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, particularly in vulnerable rural communities. Officials emphasized that swift action in response to actionable intelligence was instrumental in resolving the case and preventing further harm.
Security analysts note that intelligence-led policing has increasingly become central to countering kidnapping operations, which frequently rely on rapid movement of victims into forested or remote areas. Early interception of suspects can disrupt such plans and reduce the likelihood of prolonged captivity.
Community members in Ojeji have reportedly expressed relief over the rescue of the worshippers, though concerns about long-term security remain. Religious institutions across the region have been urged to strengthen local vigilance measures and maintain close communication with security agencies.
The Benue State Police Command stated that the suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations. Officials also appealed to residents to continue providing credible information that could assist in preventing similar incidents.
As authorities pursue additional leads, the case underscores the continuing challenge of safeguarding public gatherings in areas grappling with evolving security threats. For now, the successful rescue operation has offered temporary reassurance to the affected community, even as broader efforts to address insecurity in the region continue.
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