…the victims were participating in a night vigil when armed assailants stormed the church.
Makurdi, Nigeria – The iNews Times reports that the Benue State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of nine worshippers during a night vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije community, Utonkon, within Ado Local Government Area of the state.
The incident was disclosed on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Edet Udeme, during an interview with journalists.
According to the police, the victims were participating in a night vigil when armed assailants stormed the church, abducting nine worshippers and taking them to an unknown destination.
DSP Udeme said the Commissioner of Police has ordered the immediate deployment of tactical and operational units to the affected community to intensify search-and-rescue operations.
She assured residents that the police command remains fully committed to the protection of lives and property across Benue State.
The PPRO added that security has been reinforced in vulnerable areas of the state to prevent further attacks and restore public confidence.
“Efforts are ongoing to rescue the abducted worshippers and apprehend those responsible for the attack,” Udeme said.
Residents have been urged to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could aid the rescue operation.
