A joint operation by police officers from Benue and Enugu States has led to the arrest of Yusuf Muhamed, a suspected kidnap gang leader, in Orokam, Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State.
The suspect and his gang had been terrorizing several communities within the local government area, prompting the council chairman to impose a curfew to curb the violence.
A local resident, Mike Agbo, confirmed that Muhamed and other members of the gang were apprehended during the past week. “Three kidnapped victims identified Muhamed as the officer in charge of torture in the kidnappers’ camp,” he said.
The chairman of Ogbadibo LGA, Sunday Ajunwa, confirmed the arrest to journalists on Saturday, August 30. He explained that the combined forces of police from Makurdi and Enugu, along with the local vigilante group, successfully captured Muhamed after he attempted to flee but was pursued and caught by youths.
Ajunwa revealed that the victims made confessional statements detailing the torture they endured under Muhamed’s control. Alongside Muhamed, 21 other suspects are currently in police custody.
Due to escalating insecurity, the council imposed a curfew from 6 pm to 6 am. Ajunwa stated that while the situation has improved, the curfew remains in place for now. “I am considering lifting it after consultations with security agencies and community stakeholders,” he added.
