More than 20 medical and dental students, along with a house officer, have been kidnapped in Benue State. The abduction occurred around 5:30 p.m. as the students were en route to the Federation of Catholic Medical and Dental Students (FECAMDS) annual convention in Enugu. The incident took place in the Otukpo area, according to reports.
The victims are believed to be from the University of Maiduguri and the University of Jos. The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the kidnapping, with spokesperson SP Catherine Anene stating that an investigation is underway. No ransom demands or conditions for their release have been communicated as of yet.
Kidnapping for ransom has become an alarming trend in Benue and across Nigeria, heightening fears and insecurity within communities. Recent months have seen a rise in such incidents, including the abduction of two students from Joseph Sarwuan University of Agriculture in May, and three staff members, including the acting Rector of Benue State Polytechnic, in July. Additionally, ten individuals were kidnapped in March at the Taraba/Benue border community in Jootar.
This surge in kidnapping underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures and strategies to combat the increasing criminality affecting various parts of the country. The situation remains under close scrutiny as authorities work to address the root causes of this alarming trend and ensure the safe return of the abducted individuals.
ALSO ENJOY: Chinese firm releases presidential jet for Tinubu’s meeting with Macron
