By Adesakin Adefemi
The Benue State Police Command has recorded major breakthroughs in its fight against violent crime, with the arrest of seven suspected kidnappers and armed robbers, recovery of arms, and the busting of a human trafficking and job racketeering syndicate.
On May 21, 2026, operatives of the Command’s tactical team carried out a raid in Gboko Local Government Area based on credible intelligence. The operation led to the arrest of five suspects after a gun duel in which the police subdued the group with superior firepower.
Recovered from the suspects were two locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, two pistols, and rounds of live ammunition. The suspects are currently in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department as investigations continue.
In a separate operation on May 22, officers attached to Otukpo Division intercepted a Lexus RX 350 vehicle stolen at gunpoint in Owerri, Imo State. Acting on intelligence, the team arrested one suspect as the vehicle was being moved through the Otukpo axis.
The Command also cracked a kidnapping case reported in Ushongo LGA on May 19, where a young man allegedly went missing after meeting an acquaintance and the family received a ₦7 million ransom demand. Detectives arrested one suspect, and further technical intelligence led to the arrest of two others in Katsina-Ala, including the purported victim who was found to have conspired in the staged kidnapping.
Police said they also made arrests in connection with armed robbery and attempted culpable homicide in Ushongo LGA. A stolen motorcycle linked to one of the incidents was recovered during the investigations.
In another operation, the Command uncovered a human trafficking and job racketeering network that lured young women with fake overseas employment offers. Victims were allegedly trafficked, exploited, and abused before escaping back to Nigeria. One suspect has been arrested, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members believed to be operating abroad.
Commissioner of Police Ifeanyi Emenari commended the officers for their gallantry, professionalism, and resilience during the operations. He said the Command remains committed to sustaining aggressive action against kidnapping, armed robbery, human trafficking, and other violent crimes in the state.
The police urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies. Citizens were advised to report suspicious activities through the Command’s emergency lines 08066006475, 07067374913, or at the nearest police station.
