Police arrest ammunition courier, repel herdsmen attack in Benue
Police Arrest Suspected Ammunition Courier in Benue State
The Benue State Police Command has apprehended a suspect accused of transporting illegal ammunition in the Ukum Local Government Area. The operation resulted in the recovery of 117 rounds of live ammunition.
Police Public Relations Officer DSP Udeme Edet stated in a release on Saturday that the arrest occurred on February 6, 2026, around 8:45 a.m., following credible intelligence received by law enforcement officials. The suspect, identified as Saamoga, also known as Aleki, was reportedly carrying the ammunition from Gbagir to Zaki-Biam on a commercial motorcycle.
According to police, a patrol team was dispatched to the Tse Dubem area to conduct a stop-and-search operation. Upon noticing the police, Saamoga allegedly abandoned the motorcycle and attempted to flee. During the pursuit, he sustained a gunshot wound to the leg and was taken into custody.
A subsequent search led to the discovery of 117 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition concealed in socks within his handbag, along with various charms and a mobile phone. Preliminary investigations revealed that Saamoga intended to transport the ammunition to Taraba State. He was transported to the General Hospital in Zaki-Biam for medical treatment but later succumbed to his injuries.
In a separate incident the same day, police received reports of an attack by suspected armed Fulani herdsmen in Edikwu Icho, located in Apa Local Government Area. Officers from the Rapid Response Squad responded swiftly, successfully repelling the attack and restoring order to the area.
Additionally, the command announced that reconstruction of a bridge linking Ugbokpo, Idogbu, Ochumeku, and Ikobi, previously damaged by suspected herdsmen, has commenced. This project is being conducted under strict security protocols to ensure the safety of workers and local residents.
Benue State Commissioner of Police Ifeanyi Emenari praised the officers for their prompt action and professionalism. He reiterated the command’s commitment to proactive and intelligence-based policing to protect lives and property in the state.
The police also highlighted the importance of collaboration with other security agencies, including the Nigerian Army and Civil Protection Guard, as well as local government officials, stating that this cooperation is vital for maintaining peace and public safety.
Residents are encouraged to remain calm and continue providing timely information to assist law enforcement in preventing and detecting crime in the area.
