The Benue State Police Command has made a series of arrests, including gun manufacturers and armed robbery suspects, as part of an operation aimed at maintaining peace and security in the state.
This crackdown followed the successful execution of a crime-free festive period during the Christmas and New Year celebrations. State Commissioner of Police Steve Yabanet confirmed that the police took action after receiving credible information about the illegal manufacturing of firearms in Mbaafa, Adikpo, Kwande Local Council.
On January 5, 2025, three brothers traveling from Obudu Local Council in Cross River State to Adikpo in Benue were targeted by a commercial motorcyclist, who diverted them to a remote area. Unbeknownst to the robbers, one of the brothers understood their language and alerted his siblings, allowing them to escape. The robbers chased them into the bush and stole CFA francs and naira. Two suspects, Terhemba Abugh and Shima Terseer, were arrested.
In another operation on January 10, 2025, police apprehended 50-year-old Meme Ihoon, a key figure in supplying arms to kidnappers, armed robbers, and cultists in Daudu. Ihoon’s residence was raided, where six dane guns and tools for fabricating firearms were seized. Ihoon confessed to his involvement in the illegal arms trade.
A subsequent raid on January 11, 2025, in Mbaafa led to the arrest of two suspects, Friday Aduduakamve and Iorwashima Iornyume (also known as “AK-35”), who were found at a gun fabrication site. Police recovered nine fabricated pistols, an incomplete AK-47 rifle, gas cylinders, and various tools used in the illegal manufacturing of firearms.
On January 12, 2025, Aondoseer Aguetar was arrested after being linked to an armed robbery incident. He confessed to the crime following his arrest.
The Commissioner of Police urged parents, religious leaders, and traditional rulers to join forces in combating crime, emphasizing the importance of instilling cultural and religious values to reduce criminal activities in the community.
