Police Recover Arms, Neutralised Armed Robbers In Benue

Benue State Police Command has arrested several suspects involved in criminal activities, recovered illegal firearms and ammunition and neutralised armed robbery suspects.

The command also foiled criminal operations in various parts of the state.

According to the command, the operational successes were achieved through intelligence-led policing, proactive patrols, and collaborative security operations

In a statement issued by its spoeksperson, DSP Udeme Edet, the command explained that among the achievements was the arrest of one suspect by operatives of the Violent Crimes Response Unit (VCRU) in Makurdi, who was found in possession of a locally fabricated revolver pistol and six rounds of live ammunition.

Parts of the statement read, “Investigations are ongoing to determine further criminal links.Similarly, operatives attached to Daudu Division, acting on credible intelligence, raided a criminal hideout in Gyemu Settlement, Guma Local Government Area, where a suspected cultist believed to be associated with the notorious Red Skin Cult Group was arrested.”

“Criminal charms were recovered from the suspect, who has reportedly confessed to cult-related activities. Investigations are in progress.

“In a major breakthrough against armed banditry, officers of Gbeji Division, in collaboration with members of the Community Volunteer Guards, responded swiftly to reports of suspected armed bandits operation along the Vaase–Chito Road in Ukum Local Government Area”

The statement added, “ The suspects engaged security personnel in a gun duel, during which three of them were neutralized. One AK-47 rifle, twenty-one rounds of live ammunition, and a motorcycle were recovered from them. Other members of the gang escaped on motorcycles with gunshot injuries and are being trailed” it said.

“The Command also recorded the arrest of a suspected armed robbery and kidnapping syndicate leader in Gboko Local Government Area through the efforts of Operation Zenda Joint Task Force. A locally fabricated firearm, five rounds of live ammunition, and criminal charms were recovered from the suspect. He was taken to the hospital for medical treatment following injuries sustained during an attempted mob attack”

“Furthermore, officers attached to Okpokwu Division successfully foiled a robbery operation at an NYSC Corps Members’ Lodge in Ugwu Okpoga, Okpokwu Local Government Area. The swift response of the Police led to the arrest of one suspect, while other members of the gang fled the scene. The operation prevented the robbery and ensured the safety of residents within the facility”

In total, the Command recovered: Two locally fabricated firearms; One AK-47 rifle; Thirty-two rounds of live ammunition; One motorcycle; and various criminal charms” the Command said.

The Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, Cletus C. N. Nwadiogbu, commended the officers and men involved in these operations for their professionalism, courage, and dedication to duty.

He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.

The Commissioner further urged residents to continue supporting the Police and other security agencies by providing timely and credible information that will aid ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.