The Police in Benue State says it has arrested a total of 273 suspects in connection with capital offences in the state. Commissioner of Police (CP) in charge of Benue Command of the Nigeria Police, CP Steve Yabanet, who disclosed this to journalists during briefings said 250 suspects have been charged to court already.
CP Yabanet was posted to Benue Command in April this year and his briefings earlier today provides insight into what the command under his watch has been able to do in the last eight months.
According to CP Yabanet, a total number of 20 firearms and 51 ammunitions have been recovered during operations by his command in the period under review. Other feats recorded by the command include rescue of 34 kidnap victims, recovery of one car, one tricycle and 14 motoecycles.
Besides, the Police chief in the state says his command also employs non-kinetics measures like dialogue, advocacy and other alternative dispute resolution strategies to ensure that Benue communities remain peaceful.
CP Yabanet is therefore calling “on parents, teachers, religious leaders and traditional rulers to join the fight against cultism as it requires a ‘carrot and stick’ approach to combat.” He says cultism is one of the major threats to security in the state.
He appreciates the Governor of Benue state, Fr. Hyacinth Alia for his support, and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokub, for being a “pillar of the command” as well as officers and men of his command “for their tireless efforts during this period. Also, to all security agents in the state and the security Adviser to the Governor. May Almighty God reward us all.”
