Three suspected members of a notorious kidnap gang were apprehended by the Benue State Community Volunteer Guards in Otukpo town, Otukpo Local Government Area (LGA). The suspects were arrested on Monday while attempting to flee with N11 million Naira, believed to be ransom money collected from their recent victims.
Eyewitnesses in Otukpo reported that the gang members were intercepted at the Otukpo motor park as they tried to board a bus to Makurdi, the state capital. Their apprehension followed a tip-off to the Community Volunteer Guards, who swiftly moved to the scene and detained the suspects.
"They were arrested after information got to the Community Volunteer Guards from Otukpo Motor Park, where they were trying to board a vehicle to Makurdi," an eyewitness disclosed. "The Guards immediately moved to the scene and had them arrested. They were searched, and some money, suspected to be the ransom received from their victims, was recovered from them."
Following their arrest, the suspects were promptly handed over to the Police in Otukpo for further investigation and necessary action. The Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Catherine Anene, confirmed the arrest and indicated that the suspects were also linked to a recent violent robbery.
Superintendent Anene stated, "The suspects are connected to the recent attack on a Benue Links bus in Otukpa, during which the driver was tragically killed. Investigation into the matter is already ongoing."
This development has brought a sense of relief to the residents of Otukpo and the surrounding areas, which have been plagued by a series of kidnappings and robberies in recent times. The swift action of the Community Volunteer Guards and the cooperation of the local community were pivotal in the successful apprehension of the suspects.
The incident underscores the importance of community vigilance and the effective collaboration between local security outfits and the police in tackling crime. The Benue State Community Volunteer Guards, established to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies, have once again demonstrated their value in maintaining peace and security in the region. While investigations continue, the police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The arrest of these suspects is seen as a critical step in dismantling the criminal networks operating in the state and ensuring the safety and security of its residents.
