Benue Police Arrest 32, Recover Arms

HEMBADOON ORSAR, MAKURDI

The Benue State Police Command has executed a significant crackdown on criminal activities, resulting in the arrest of 32 suspects over the past fortnight.

The crackdown led to the recovery of multiple arms and ammunition, Commissioner of Police in the state, George Chuku, said during a briefing in Makurdi, the state capital.

Among the array of incidents unveiled, one particularly unsettling occurrence involved an eight-year-old boy, Oryina, who was subjected to a horrendous act by a neighbour, Abara Ehas.

The suspect, 24, allegedly lured the child to an uncompleted building in the area and sexually assaulted him while the parents were away.

The child is currently undergoing medical treatment, while Ehas faces court arraignment on prosecution charges, the police said in a statement.

In another distressing incident on December 2, 2023, a National Youth Service Corps member, Mark Akpobari, encountered Iji Joseph in Wurukum, Makurdi, who falsely accused Akpobari of stealing his genital organ.

The allegation led to a violent mob attack on Akpobari, who was saved by the quick intervention by a police patrol team.

Akpobari suffered severe injuries and has been admitted to a hospital for treatment.

Joseph has been arraigned in court on defamation of character and assault charges, the police say.

Adding to the string of alarming occurrences, a tragic case of criminal conspiracy and culpable homicide was reported on December 24, 2023, near the Old Rice Mill in Wurukum, Makurdi. Investigation results unveiled Friday Oche, Friday Samuel, and Meshack Igwe as perpetrators of the fatal stabbing of Gabriel Abuh, 19.

Abuh succumbed to his injuries despite swift medical attention at Devine Love Hospital. The trio, confessing to cult group association, has been arraigned in court for prosecution.

Commissioner George Chuku urged residents to remain vigilant, stressing the commitment of the Benue State Police Command to securing the state.

He called for continued cooperation from the public to aid in curbing criminal activities, assuring that law enforcement agencies would tirelessly work towards ensuring the safety and security of all residents.

The efforts by the Benue State Police Command underscore the commitment to maintain law and order while apprehending those responsible for disrupting peace within the communities across the state.
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