By Paul Aondoakaa 

The Benue State Police Command has announced major breakthroughs in its operations against kidnapping, armed robbery and human trafficking across the state. Police said the operations led to the arrest of seven suspects, recovery of weapons and a stolen vehicle, while investigations remain ongoing.

The Benue State Police Command has recorded major successes in ongoing operations targeting violent crimes across the state, leading to the arrest of seven suspected kidnappers and armed robbers, recovery of firearms and ammunition, and the exposure of an alleged human trafficking and job racketeering syndicate.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet.

According to the statement, operatives of the Command’s tactical team conducted a special operation in Gboko Local Government Area on May 21, 2026, following credible intelligence reports.

Police said five suspected armed robbers and kidnappers were arrested during the operation after they reportedly engaged officers in a gun duel before being overpowered.
Items reportedly recovered from the suspects included two locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, two pistols and live ammunition.

The Command stated that the suspects are currently in custody while investigations continue at the State Criminal Investigation Department.

In another operation conducted on May 22, officers attached to the Otukpo Division intercepted and recovered a Lexus RX 350 vehicle allegedly snatched at gunpoint in Owerri.

According to police, intelligence reports indicated that the vehicle was being moved through Benue State, prompting operatives to intercept it within the Otukpo axis.

One suspect was arrested in connection with the incident and is reportedly assisting investigators.
The Command also announced progress in an alleged kidnapping case in Ushongo Local Government Area involving a reported ransom demand of ₦7 million.

Police said investigations commenced after receiving a complaint that a young man had gone missing after accompanying a suspected acquaintance.

The family later reportedly received ransom demands from alleged abductors.

However, detectives said further investigations aided by technical intelligence led to the arrest of additional suspects in Katsina-Ala, including the purported victim who allegedly conspired in staging the kidnapping.

The suspects remain in custody while investigations continue.

Police further disclosed arrests linked to separate cases of alleged armed robbery and attempted culpable homicide in Ushongo LGA, with a stolen motorcycle reportedly recovered.

In another development, the Command uncovered what it described as a suspected human trafficking and job racketeering network allegedly deceiving young women with false promises of employment opportunities abroad.

Preliminary investigations reportedly revealed that some victims were trafficked and subjected to exploitation and abuse before escaping and returning to Nigeria.

Police confirmed the arrest of one suspect while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other alleged members believed to be operating outside the country.

The Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, commended officers involved in the operations for their professionalism and resilience.

He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to intensifying efforts against kidnapping, armed robbery, human trafficking and related crimes across Benue State while urging residents to provide timely information to security agencies.