A Benue State court has convicted nine of 10 suspects involved in the abduction of worshippers at St. John Catholic Church in Ojeji community, Ado Local Government Area, in a case that raised serious concerns about local security.
The victims were reportedly kidnapped during a night vigil, prompting a rapid response from joint security operatives.
Acting on credible intelligence, authorities launched coordinated operations that led to the safe rescue of all nine worshippers without injury.
The Police Intelligence Response Team spearheaded the initial operation, arresting four suspects and recovering AK-47 rifles and ammunition. Continued investigations led to further arrests, bringing the total number of suspects to 10.
Among those apprehended were Abubakar Jibril and Ashiru Ibrahim, whose arrests provided critical information that helped dismantle the criminal network.
Following their arraignment, nine suspects were convicted and sentenced to varying prison terms, while one suspect remains in custody pending trial.
Reacting to the verdict, Executive Chairman of Ado Local Government Area, Sunny Oche, commended the combined efforts of security agencies, including the police, DSS, and local vigilantes.
Oche also praised Governor Hyacinth Alia, the Inspector General of Police, and Deputy Governor Sam Odeh for their roles in ensuring justice, stating that the convictions “reflect a strong commitment to safeguarding lives and restoring public confidence in the community.”