Three female students of the Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi, formerly known as the Federal University of Agriculture Makurdi, have regained their freedom after being kidnapped within the school premises.
The Commissioner of Police in Benue State, CP Hassan Yabanet, confirmed their release in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Catherine Anene, on Thursday.
According to the statement, the students were freed at about 9:30 pm on Wednesday and are currently receiving medical care at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), Makurdi.
“On 26th February 2025, at about 9:34 pm, information was received from J.S. Tarka University, Makurdi, that students were kidnapped within the school premises by unknown persons,” CP Yabanet said.
He explained that a team of police officers was immediately deployed for investigation.
“During the investigation, it was gathered that three female students were held hostage by their kidnappers. On 5th March 2025, following continuous efforts to track the kidnappers, the victims were released at about 9:34 pm and are currently receiving medical attention at Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi,” the statement added.
The police commissioner praised all officers involved in the operation, including the IGP Intelligence Response Team from Abuja and other security agencies in the state, for their dedication.
CP Yabanet assured the public that investigations are still ongoing and vowed to ensure the arrest of those responsible for the crime.
“We remain committed to ensuring that the perpetrators of this act are brought to justice,” he said.
Meanwhile, the families of the rescued students have expressed relief and gratitude for their safe return, while urging security agencies to intensify efforts to curb insecurity in the region.
