The Nigeria Police Force in Benue State has recorded major breakthroughs in its ongoing crackdown on criminal activities across the state, including the rescue of eight kidnapped victims, the neutralisation of three suspected armed bandits, and the arrest of 10 suspects linked to offences ranging from human trafficking and armed robbery to rape, cultism and illegal possession of firearms.
The latest security update was announced on Friday, June 26, 2026, in Makurdi, where the Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, addressed journalists on recent operations carried out by the command. He said the briefing formed part of the command’s commitment to transparency and public accountability while assuring residents that security agencies remain fully committed to protecting lives and property across the state.
According to CP Nwadiogbu, the successes were made possible through intelligence-led policing, coordinated tactical deployments and collaboration with community-based security groups. He noted that the command had intensified surveillance and rapid-response operations in flashpoint areas where kidnappings, armed attacks and other violent crimes have remained persistent concerns.
Among the most significant breakthroughs was the successful rescue of eight kidnapped victims, who were freed during separate operations conducted by police tactical teams. Authorities said the victims were rescued unharmed after operatives tracked the movements of suspected kidnappers and mounted coordinated interventions in identified hideouts. Police said investigations are continuing to arrest other fleeing members of the kidnapping syndicates.
The command also confirmed the neutralisation of three suspected armed bandits during a gun battle with security personnel in a volatile area of the state. Police said the suspects opened fire on operatives after being confronted, prompting a fierce exchange of gunfire. The three suspects were killed during the encounter, while other gang members escaped with suspected gunshot wounds. Security operatives have launched manhunts to track down the fleeing suspects.
During the operation, police recovered firearms, ammunition and other exhibits believed to have been used in criminal activities. Recovered items included an AK-47 rifle, rounds of live ammunition, locally fabricated weapons and motorcycles suspected to have been used for mobility during attacks. The command said the recovered weapons have significantly weakened the operational capacity of the criminal gangs.
In addition to the anti-kidnapping operations, police arrested 10 suspects allegedly connected to various crimes across Benue State. The offences under investigation include human trafficking, armed robbery, rape, cult-related activities and unlawful possession of firearms. Some suspects were reportedly arrested during targeted raids on criminal hideouts, while others were apprehended following intelligence reports from residents.
CP Nwadiogbu commended officers involved in the operations for their professionalism, courage and resilience, especially amid growing security challenges in parts of the state. He emphasized that criminal elements would continue to face sustained pressure from law enforcement agencies.
The police commissioner also urged residents of Benue to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information, stressing that community cooperation remains critical in combating crime. He assured the public that the command would maintain aggressive operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and restoring peace across the state.
The latest security gains come as Benue continues to grapple with security threats including kidnapping, armed attacks and communal violence. Authorities say sustained collaboration between the police, local vigilantes and residents remains essential to preventing further criminal activities and ensuring long-term stability.
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