Benue: Police arrest suspected kidnappers, robbers, recover AK-47 rifles, ammunition
Benue State Police Arrest 20 Suspects in Cracking Down on Criminal Activities
MAKURDI, Nigeria – The Benue State Police Command has arrested 20 individuals suspected of involvement in kidnapping, armed banditry, robbery, and various other criminal activities. The arrests were made following a series of operations conducted by police personnel throughout the state.
Commissioner of Police Cletus Nwadiogbu presented the suspects at the command headquarters in Makurdi. He stated that the operations led to significant recoveries, including three AK-47 rifles, 33 rounds of ammunition, two motorcycles, a Toyota Corolla, and locally made firearms, along with suspected criminal charms.
Nwadiogbu highlighted a successful operation in the Logo Local Government Area, where three armed suspects were neutralized. Additionally, he reported the neutralization of another armed suspect on August 26 in the Ayilamo area, who was allegedly part of a group terrorizing local farmers and damaging agricultural produce.
On August 9, police disrupted an attempted armed robbery in Ayati village, located in the Gwer-East Local Government Area. Although the suspects fled the scene, they left behind a locally fabricated revolver and live ammunition.
During the investigation, police uncovered an alleged vehicle and motorcycle theft syndicate, linking five of the arrested suspects to this group. Detectives extended their operations to Dan-Anacha in the Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State, where they located two Bajaj motorcycles and the recovered Toyota Corolla.
Nwadiogbu warned criminals engaged in the illicit possession, movement, and trafficking of firearms that law enforcement will persist in combating such activities. He emphasized that Benue State will not become a safe haven for criminal elements.
The commissioner also urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting any suspicious individuals, movements, or activities within their communities.
