The Benue State Police Command has arrested four suspects connected to the abduction of worshippers during a night vigil at St. John Catholic Church, Ojeji, in Ado Local Government Area, with all kidnapped victims successfully rescued unharmed.
In a statement released Sunday, the police detailed the intelligence-led operations that led to the breakthrough. Operatives of the Ado Division initially apprehended two suspects—Abubakar Jibril and Ashiru Ibrahim—on February 11, 2026, after acting on credible intelligence.
The suspects were found in possession of five rounds of 7.62mm ammunition and were subsequently handed over to the Inspector-General of Police's Intelligence Response Team (IRT) for further investigation.
Following up on leads provided by the initial arrests, the IRT, in conjunction with Benue State tactical teams, raided a hideout linked to Ashiru Ibrahim on February 14. The joint operation yielded significant results, including the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and eight rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.
Two additional suspects, believed to be key members of the kidnapping syndicate, were arrested during the raid. Investigations have so far connected all four suspects directly to the St. John Catholic Church abduction that sent shockwaves through the community.
The police confirmed that sustained intelligence-led operations across Ado and neighboring communities ensured the safe release of all kidnapped victims without harm. Efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the criminal network still at large.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, has emphasized that the command remains fully mobilized to combat kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes across Benue State. In a move to strengthen security further, the Inspector-General of Police has deployed the Police Air Wing for aerial surveillance and reinforced tactical teams throughout the state.
The police command expressed gratitude for the support received from the Benue State Government, the Catholic Diocese, Ado LGA leadership, the Nigerian Army, and other security agencies. Officials credited this collaborative approach for the successful resolution of the incident.
Community members who had been living in fear since the abduction have welcomed the news of the arrests and rescues. Many praised the security forces for their swift action and urged them to maintain momentum in hunting down remaining criminal elements in the area.
The Benue State Police Command reassured residents of their commitment to protecting lives and property, urging members of the public to continue providing credible information that could lead to the arrest of other criminal suspects.
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