Kidnapped worshippers of St. John Catholic Church regain freedom in Benue, four suspects arrested

Kidnapped worshippers of St. John Catholic Church regain freedom in Benue, four suspects arrested

By: Zagazola Makama

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the release of worshippers abducted during a night vigil at St. John Catholic Church, Ojeji, in Ado Local Government Area of the state.

Sources disclosed that the victims were freed unhurt following sustained search and rescue operations mounted by security operatives in the area.

In connection with the incident, two suspects, Abubakar Jibril and Ashiru Ibrahim, were earlier arrested on Feb. 11, 2026, by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Ado. The suspects were reportedly found in possession of five rounds of 7.62mm ammunition at the time of their arrest.

Further follow-up operations by the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) from Abuja, in collaboration with tactical teams, led to a raid on a hideout linked to one of the suspects. During the operation on Feb. 14, an AK-47 rifle and eight rounds of 7.62mm ammunition were recovered, while two additional suspects were arrested.

The suspects are believed to be involved in the kidnapping of worshippers during the church’s night vigil.

Authorities said investigations by the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) and the IRT are ongoing, with efforts intensified to track down other members of the syndicate.

Kidnapped worshippers of St. John Catholic Church regain freedom in Benue, four suspects arrested