The Benue State Police Command has arrested seven suspected kidnappers and armed robbers in coordinated operations across different parts of the state. The operations also led to the recovery of firearms and a stolen Lexus vehicle.Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, confirmed the arrests in a statement. The command said the successes followed intelligence-driven raids and swift responses to criminal activities reported in recent days.
On May 21, operatives carried out a raid in Gboko Local Government Area where five suspected kidnappers and armed robbers were arrested after a gun duel with security personnel. The suspects were subdued and taken into custody.Items recovered from them included two locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, two pistols and several rounds of live ammunition. The suspects are currently being held at the State Criminal Investigation Department where investigations are ongoing.
In a separate operation on May 22, officers attached to the Otukpo Division intercepted a Lexus RX 350 vehicle. The car was reportedly snatched at gunpoint in Owerri, Imo State. One suspect was arrested in connection with the vehicle and is assisting police with investigations.
Police also investigated a case in Ushongo Local Government Area where a family reported their son missing and later received a ransom demand of N7 million. Further probes revealed the kidnapping was staged. The supposed victim and two accomplices were arrested in Ushongo and Katsina-Ala areas.In another development, the command uncovered a syndicate involved in human trafficking and job racketeering. The group allegedly lured young women with promises of overseas jobs. One suspect has been arrested while efforts continue to apprehend others believed to be operating outside the country.
Commissioner of Police Ifeanyi Emenari commended the officers for their professionalism and bravery. He said the command remains committed to sustained operations against kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes in the state.Residents have been urged to continue providing useful information to security agencies to help maintain peace and security in Benue.
