The Benue State Police Command has announced the successful destruction of several bandit camps operating along the Makurdi–Yelewata and Makurdi–Naka highways, a move authorities say has significantly reduced violent attacks in the area. Commissioner of Police, Dr. Ifeanyi Emenari, disclosed this in Makurdi while receiving members of the Forum of Investigative Journalists, led by Tamenor Kwaghzer, at the Command Headquarters.
According to him, the presence of the camps had emboldened armed groups to stage frequent attacks on motorists and residents, but their clearance has brought about a sharp decline in incidents of robbery and killings. He, however, cautioned that while the situation has improved, occasional attacks still occur, often carried out by suspected herders who sneak into the state to cause unrest.
Dr. Emenari appealed to residents to partner with security agencies by providing credible information that could help flush out what he described as enemies of the people. On the recent incident along the Makurdi–Naka road, he clarified that it was an attempted armed robbery rather than a kidnapping as initially feared. He blamed the poor condition of the road for enabling criminal activity but explained that police operatives repelled the attack during a routine clearance patrol.
The Commissioner also addressed the killing of four individuals in Jato Aka, Kwande Local Government Area, noting that preliminary findings indicated the victims may have been hit by stray bullets during a shootout between soldiers and hoodlums. He assured that investigations were ongoing and revealed that additional personnel had been deployed to the area to forestall further violence.
While stressing that crime cannot be completely eradicated, Dr. Emenari maintained that cooperation between the public and security agencies remained key to sustaining peace. He added that as the Ember months progress, the Command has prioritized the protection of lives and property, urging communities to embrace peace over crisis.
