BANDITS STORM CHURCH DURING NIGHT VIGIL, KIDNAP NINE WORSHIPPERS IN BENUE

Suspected bandits have abducted nine worshippers during a night vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon, Ado Local Government Area of Benue State.

The incident was confirmed on Monday by the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Edet Udeme, who said the attack occurred while worshippers were observing a night vigil at the church.

According to Udeme, the assailants stormed the church under the cover of darkness and whisked away nine members of the congregation to an unknown location.

The police spokesperson disclosed that following the incident, the Benue State Police Command has deployed all its tactical teams across the state to the affected area to track the perpetrators and ensure the safe rescue of the abducted worshippers.

He assured residents that the police, in collaboration with other security agencies, are intensifying efforts to secure the release of the victims and restore calm to the community.

The abduction adds to growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Benue State, particularly attacks on rural communities and places of worship.

Police authorities urged members of the public to remain vigilant and to provide credible information that could aid ongoing rescue operations and the arrest of the suspects.