Follow Us on Google
From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
Benue State Police Command has bursted a kidnappers hideout in Ukum Local Government Area (LGA) of the state killed three suspects and rescued two victims.
The Commissioner of Police
Benue State Command, CP Hassan Yabanet, disclosed this in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer( PPRO), SP Catherine Anene, and made available to newsmen in Makurdi on Wednesday.
He also stated that one of the suspected kidnappers was arrested during the raid.
The statement said the command under the leadership of CP. Hassan Yabanet has intensified operations across the state particularly in Sankara axis; Logo, Ukum and Katsina-Ala LGAs.
The operation is geared towards returning farmers to their farm lands and curbing banditry in the area.
According to the Commissioner, “On 29/5/2024 at about 0600hrs, officers of the Operation Zenda Joint Task Force, JTF, stormed a kidnap hideout at Utanger Council Ward in Katsina-Ala LGA.
“On sighting the police, the kidnappers led by the gang leader, Tersue Dada aka “Causer” engaged the team in a gun duel but were over powered by the superior fire power of the police.
“Consequently, three suspects sustained gunshot injuries and were eventually confirmed dead at the hospital while one of the suspects, Terver Tavershima of Tinenune, Ukum LGA, was arrested.”
“One AK-47 rifle, one dane gun, assorted phones, camouflage uniform and a motorcycle were recovered from the scene while two victims were rescued unhurt,” he said.
The statement quoted the victims to have stated that they were kidnapped from their homes at Ukum LGA about a week ago and the sum of N23 million was placed on them as ransom to be paid by their families.
The Police Commissioner called on the people of Sankera to cooperate with the police teams sent to the area as they continue to take the fight to criminals in the area.
