The Baenue State Police Command says it has intensified its offensive against violent crime, recording major breakthroughs that led to the arrest of seven suspected kidnappers and armed robbers, recovery of firearms, and the exposure of a human trafficking and job racketeering network.
This was contained in a press release issued on Friday, May 22, 2026, by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Police Command.
According to the statement, the operations were carried out across Gboko, Otukpo, Ushongo, and Katsina-Ala Local Government Areas through coordinated intelligence-led raids and tactical responses.
A major confrontation occurred on May 21, 2026, when operatives stormed Gboko LGA and engaged suspected kidnappers and armed robbers in a gun duel. Five suspects were arrested after being overwhelmed by superior firepower.
Recovered from them were two locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, two pistols, and several rounds of ammunition. The suspects are currently in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department.
In another operation on May 22, operatives of the Otukpo Division intercepted a Lexus RX 350 reportedly stolen at gunpoint in Owerri, Imo State. The vehicle was tracked into Benue and swiftly intercepted, leading to the arrest of one suspect.
The Command also uncovered a twist in a kidnapping case reported in Ushongo LGA, where a young man declared missing was later linked to a ₦7 million ransom demand. Investigations led to the arrest of one suspect, while follow-up intelligence operations in Katsina-Ala resulted in the arrest of two additional suspects — including the alleged victim, who was found to have allegedly participated in staging the abduction.
In a separate breakthrough, police dismantled a suspected human trafficking and job racketeering syndicate targeting young women with fake overseas job offers. Victims were allegedly trafficked and exploited before escaping and returning to Nigeria. One suspect has been arrested, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the network believed to be operating outside the country.
The Command commended the operatives for what it described as “decisive, intelligence-driven operations” and reiterated its commitment to sustaining pressure on criminal elements across the state.
It also warned that there would be no safe haven for kidnappers, armed robbers, and trafficking syndicates operating within or through Benue State.