The Benue State Police Command has eliminated multiple criminal hideouts situated along the Makurdi–Yelewata and Makurdi–Naka highways.
Commissioner of Police Dr. Ifeanyi Emenari made this known during a courtesy visit by members of the Forum of Investigative Journalists, headed by Tamenor Kwaghzer, at the Command Headquarters in Makurdi.
Emenari explained that these camps had previously enabled criminals to carry out attacks on motorists and local communities. Their removal has led to a noticeable reduction in violent crimes across the affected areas.
The police chief noted that the operation resulted in fewer incidents of highway robbery and killings, although sporadic attacks attributed to suspected herders entering the state continue to occur.
He called on residents to share reliable intelligence with security forces to help eliminate what he termed “enemies of the people.”
Addressing a recent event on the Makurdi–Naka highway, Emenari clarified that it was an attempted armed robbery rather than a kidnapping as initially reported. He pointed to the deteriorated condition of the road as a factor that facilitates criminal operations but confirmed that police personnel successfully repelled the attackers during a routine clearance operation.
Regarding the deaths of four individuals in Jato Aka, Kwande Local Government Area, the Commissioner suggested that stray bullets from a confrontation between soldiers and armed criminals may have been responsible. He stated that investigations are underway, and additional security personnel have been sent to the location.
Emenari acknowledged that while crime cannot be completely eradicated, sustained collaboration between the public and security agencies can maintain peace in the state.
He added that as the Ember months draw near, the command has made safeguarding lives and property a top priority, emphasizing that peaceful coexistence is preferable to conflict.
