In continuation of the sustained offensive against cultism and other violent crimes across Benue State, the Police have recorded further operational successes aimed at strengthening public safety and preventing criminal activities.
These achievements according to the State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet follow recent arrest of suspected cult members by the Command, which underscores the unwavering commitment to dismantle criminal networks and ensure the security of lives and property throughout the state.
She said on the 5th of January 2026 at about 2:30pm, the Divisional Police Officer, Vandeikya Division, received credible information that some hoodlums suspected to be armed robbers were sighted within the area, allegedly in possession of firearms and other dangerous weapons.
Acting promptly on the information, the DPO mobilised a patrol team comprising operatives and detectives and proceeded to the scene.
During the operation, two suspects were arrested, namely Dominic Terkaa Peter, male, aged 30 years, and Sunday Tarvihi, male, aged 31 years, both of Ako-Fate, Ute, Vandeikya Local Government Area.
According to the PPRO a search conducted on the suspects led to the recovery of one locally fabricated revolver pistol and one jack knife found in their possession.
She said the suspects are currently in custody, while investigations are ongoing at the State Criminal Investigation Department, CID, Makurdi.
In a related development on the same date at about 3:20pm Udeme said the Divisional Police Officer, Yelwata Division, received actionable intelligence that suspected cult members were planning to attack rival cult groups and unsuspecting members of the public in Udei area of Guma Local Government Area.
Adding that in furtherance of the Command’s proactive crime-prevention strategy, the DPO immediately mobilised patrol teams in collaboration with other tactical units and moved to the area.
The spokesperson said that during the operation, one suspect identified as Mnyam Ternenge, male, aged 21 years, of Udei, Guma Local Government Area, was arrested, while other suspects escaped.
Items recovered from the suspect include one cutlass, one knife, and hard drugs. Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect confessed to being a member of the MBS cult group.
She said efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects, while further investigation is being handled by the State CID, Makurdi.
The Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Emenari Ifeanyi assured the people of the State that the Command remains resolute in its determination to eradicate cultism and all forms of criminality across the state.
He urged members of the public to continue to support the Police with timely and credible information to enhance effective policing adding that further developments will be communicated as investigations progress.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
