The Benue State Police Command has apprehended no fewer than 20 suspects over various criminal activities reported in different parts of the state.
The State Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, disclosed this on Tuesday while parading the suspects at the command headquarters in Makurdi. He also announced the recovery of three AK-47 rifles, 33 rounds of ammunition and other weapons.
Nwadiogbu said those arrested during recent police operations comprised suspected kidnappers, armed bandits, robbers and other criminal elements allegedly operating across the state.
Speaking at a press briefing on the command’s operational achievements in recent weeks, the commissioner said operatives also recovered two motorcycles, a Toyota Corolla, locally made firearms and suspected criminal charms.
He disclosed that operations conducted in Logo Local Government Area led to the neutralisation of three armed suspects. Another suspect was also neutralised on August 26 during an operation around the Ayilamo axis.
According to him, the suspects were allegedly targeting farmers and destroying agricultural crops in the area.
The commissioner further stated that police operatives thwarted an armed robbery operation at Ayati village in Gwer East Local Government Area on August 9. The suspects reportedly escaped, leaving behind a locally fabricated revolver and live cartridges.
He added that five individuals were arrested over an alleged syndicate involved in stealing vehicles and motorcycles.
Nwadiogbu said further investigations took detectives to Dan-Anacha in Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State, where two red Bajaj motorcycles and a Toyota Corolla were recovered.
The police commissioner warned individuals involved in the illegal possession and movement of firearms that Benue would not become a refuge for criminal activities.
He also called on members of the public to remain alert and assist security agencies by providing reliable information about suspicious individuals, movements and activities within their communities.
