BREAKING: Gunmen have abducted a pastor and two church members in Benue State, raising fresh concerns over the security situation in parts of the state.
MAKURDI, BENUE — Gunmen abducted a pastor and two church members during a church-related activity in Benue State, according to local reports. The incident occurred in one of the affected communities, while security agencies have begun efforts to locate the victims, police sources said.
According to available reports, the attackers intercepted the victims before taking them to an unknown location. Residents alerted security personnel shortly after the incident, while local vigilante groups reportedly joined the search efforts. Authorities have yet to disclose the identities of the victims or provide further operational details.
Police authorities said investigations have commenced, while security operatives continue efforts to rescue the victims safely and apprehend those responsible. Community leaders also appealed for calm and urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could assist ongoing operations.
Benue State has experienced repeated cases of abduction and other security incidents in recent years, prompting calls for stronger security measures across vulnerable communities. The Federal Government and state authorities have continued to deploy security personnel and strengthen intelligence gathering to address the challenge, according to previous official statements.
The development means security agencies will likely intensify operations in the affected area as investigations continue. Residents and religious organisations are expected to monitor the situation closely while authorities work to secure the victims’ release and improve security in communities across Benue State.
