Family Returning for Burial Ambushed Along Otukpo–Ogobia Road as Relatives Appeal for Urgent Rescue
Gunmen who abducted a family travelling to Benue State for the burial of their late mother have released the driver, the corpse of the deceased woman and one of her three children, while continuing to hold two siblings captive.
The kidnappers are reportedly demanding a ransom of ₦30 million for the release of the remaining victims.
The family was said to have been travelling from Abuja to Oklenyi in Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue State for the burial of their late mother when their vehicle developed a mechanical fault along the Otukpo–Ogobia Road.
While stranded on the road, armed men allegedly attacked the family and whisked them away into the bush.
According to family members, the abductors later released the driver, handed over the body of the deceased woman and freed one of the siblings.
The remains of the elderly woman have since been transported to Okpoga, where funeral rites are already underway.
Despite the partial release, two of the siblings remain in captivity.
Family sources disclosed that the kidnappers have contacted relatives and are demanding ₦30 million before the remaining victims will be released.
The family is reportedly making frantic efforts to raise the ransom while appealing to security agencies to intensify rescue operations and ensure the safe return of their loved ones.
The incident has left the family with mixed emotions, as they are grateful to have recovered the body of their late mother and proceeded with her burial, yet deeply distressed over the continued captivity of the two siblings.
As of the time of filing this report, the Benue State Police Command had not issued an official statement regarding the abduction.
The latest incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity and kidnapping along major highways in parts of Benue State, where criminal gangs continue to target travellers.
IBN NEWS will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.
