…terrorists have remained silent since the incident, with no communication reported.
BENUE, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | Terrorists have heightened tension along the Benue–Taraba border after abducting a businesswoman and nine other passengers on the Takum–Tor Donga–Katsina Road in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area. The incident occurred on February 9, 2026, at about 10 a.m. at Tse-De settlement as the victims were travelling from Takum in Taraba State to Tor-Donga Market, a key commercial centre.
Family members identified the abducted woman as a grain trader and described the ordeal as harrowing. A relative lamented that there has been no contact from the terrorists since the incident, noting that a week has passed without any communication regarding their whereabouts or possible ransom demands.
Meanwhile, in a separate development, nine worshippers kidnapped by terrorists during a night vigil at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ojije, Utonkon, Ado LGA, have been freed following joint security operations. The victims, who were taken during a midnight prayer session a week earlier, regained their freedom on Saturday evening without injuries.
Confirming the development, the Benue State Police Command said the rescue was achieved through coordinated efforts with other security agencies. The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, disclosed that two suspects, Abubakar Jibril and Ashiru Ibrahim were arrested on February 11 with five rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.
Further intelligence-led operations led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle and eight additional rounds of ammunition, as well as the arrest of two more key suspects on February 14. Police said the suspects are directly connected to the church abduction, adding that Ongoing search-and-rescue missions and intelligence-driven raids applied significant pressure on the criminal network, resulting in the safe recovery of the victims. Operations are still underway to apprehend the syndicate members who remain at large.
Governor Hyacinth Alia praised security personnel for their “swift response and timely intervention,” highlighting the importance of coordination with federal agencies, local vigilante groups, and traditional leaders to ensure community safety. He revealed that a high-level security meeting on February 13 had issued directives for the immediate release of the abducted worshippers.
The rescued individuals, six women and three men are now receiving medical attention and support. Residents are being urged to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to the appropriate security authorities.
