Police Arrest Suspected Arms Supplier Linked to Bandit Network in Benue
The Benue State Police Command has arrested a 20-year-old man, identified as Joro Jarkata, for allegedly supplying ammunition to bandits operating in the state.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Peter Aondona, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday in Makurdi.
According to the police, the suspect was arrested during a proactive stop-and-search operation carried out by officers attached to the Guma Police Division on Tuesday, July 28, 2026.
Aondona said the officers intercepted two men travelling on a motorcycle during the operation.
He explained that one of the occupants jumped off the motorcycle and escaped into a nearby bush after spotting the police, while the other suspect, Jarkata, who is from Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, was apprehended.
A search conducted on him led to the recovery of 115 rounds of live 7.62mm ammunition allegedly concealed in his possession.
The police said the suspect is currently in custody, while the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Makurdi for further investigation.
Authorities added that efforts are underway to arrest the fleeing suspect and determine the origin and intended destination of the recovered ammunition.
The Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Cletus Nwadiogbu, commended the officers involved in the operation for their vigilance and professionalism, describing the recovery as a significant breakthrough in the fight against criminal networks.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to tackling the illegal movement of firearms and ammunition and dismantling groups responsible for insecurity in the state.
The commissioner also urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious individuals or activities to the nearest police station to support ongoing security efforts.
