In Benue, police arrest alleged cultists and robbers

The Benue State Police Command’s Anti-Crime Unit, codenamed Operation Zenda JTF, has busted an armed robbery syndicate in Makurdi, the state capital.

Following credible intelligence, the operatives attacked the criminals’ hideouts in the Might, Kanshio, and Asked communities of Makurdi.

The suspects were apprehended on September 3, 2023, according to a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, SP Catherine Anene Sewuese.

According to her: “On sighting the police, the group engaged the officers in an exchange of gunfire. In the process, one of the armed robbers sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed to Teaching Hospital Makurdi, where he was receiving treatment but eventually died, and his body was deposited at the hospital mortuary.

“Other gang members arrested include Tersoo Godwin Akatakpo, aka General; Gowon Akatakpo; Ikya Chahul Atseriyol; and Terver Iortimdee. The suspects confessed that they are members of Junior Vikings Confraternity (JVC) as well as armed robbers. ”

She added: “Items recovered from them are: one single-barrel gun, two locally made pistols, five live cartridges, four expended shells of cartridges, two Dane guns, one red beret with the JVC logo, and three handsets suspected to be stolen. Suspects will be arraigned in court as soon as investigation is completed.”