Kidnappers who abducted 14 passengers from a Benue Links vehicle have demanded a N14 million ransom for their release, sparking protests in Owukpa community of Benue State.

The victims, predominantly women returning from Orba market in Enugu State, were kidnapped on Saturday evening around 7 p.m. near Eyiupi community along the Owukpa-Orokam road in Ogbadibo Local Government Area. The armed assailants, suspected to be herdsmen, ambushed the vehicle and seized all passengers.

In response to the abductions, hundreds of Owukpa youths staged a peaceful protest on Monday, blocking the Orokam-Owukpa-Okpoga road and demanding immediate government intervention to secure the release of their community members.

Speaking during the protest, a youth leader expressed frustration with local authorities: "We have nothing to do. The kidnappers have now demanded N1 million each for our 14 people. We came out for a peaceful protest, but our traditional rulers have sold us out."

The protesters revealed they plan to take matters into their own hands by repairing the dilapidated portion of the road where most abductions occur and clearing surrounding bushes that provide cover for criminals.

Security Response Questioned

The youths made a disturbing claim about the local security response, alleging that when they approached police for assistance, officers stated they lacked ammunition to confront the kidnappers and conduct a rescue operation.

As of the time of reporting, no state or federal security operatives had arrived in the area to address the situation, and all 14 abductees remain in captivity.

This incident adds to growing security concerns in the Owukpa area, which has reportedly experienced multiple kidnapping incidents in recent months. The community's frustration appears to be mounting over what they perceive as inadequate security measures and government response to protect travelers on this route.

Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding rescue efforts or plans to address the security challenges in the area.