Benue State, the Benue State Police Command has arrested 42 armed herders and bandits across various communities.
The arrests, made over the past month, are part of an intensified security operation aimed at curbing the wave of violence, including killings and kidnappings, that has destabilized the region.
State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, announced the development during a press briefing in Makurdi on Thursday, June 12, 2025.
He revealed that the suspects were apprehended in multiple local government areas, including Apa, Gwer West, Logo, Katsina-Ala, Ukum, Agatu, and Guma, where armed herders and bandits have been terrorizing residents.
“We’ve taken the fight directly to those behind the attacks and killings in Benue communities,” Emenari stated, emphasizing the proactive approach of the police’s tactical teams, which have been combing forests and hideouts to root out criminal elements.
Among the 42 suspects, approximately 20 armed herders are currently remanded in custody awaiting trial, while others remain under investigation.
The police also recovered significant weaponry, including two AK-47 rifles and 21 locally made firearms, underscoring the threat posed by the suspects.
Emenari noted that joint patrols with other security agencies, supported by the state government, have bolstered these efforts, allowing farmers to begin returning to their farmlands in some areas.
The arrests follow a series of deadly attacks linked to suspected herdsmen and bandits in Benue.
In May 2025, over 42 people, including a mobile police officer, were killed in coordinated attacks across four communities in Gwer West LGA, prompting widespread outrage.
Residents had accused armed herders of occupying farmlands and displacing farmers, contributing to food insecurity in the state.
The recent operations have also addressed cult-related attacks in Makurdi and robbery incidents along major highways, with the police assuring residents of improved safety on key routes like the Naka road.
Local leaders and residents have cautiously welcomed the arrests but called for sustained action.
“These arrests are a step in the right direction, but the government must ensure these criminals face justice,” said Patrick Modoom, a community leader in Gwer West.
He urged the deployment of additional security personnel to prevent further attacks, noting that many communities remain vulnerable.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, who has prioritized security since assuming office, commended the police for their efforts.
His administration has pledged to continue supporting joint security operations to restore peace and enable displaced farmers to resume agricultural activities, critical to Benue’s economy as Nigeria’s “food basket.”
The Commissioner of Police appealed to residents to report suspicious activities, assuring swift responses to credible information.
“Our capability to respond to distress calls within 30 minutes, depending on location, has improved significantly,” Emenari added, reinforcing the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
As investigations continue, the arraignment of the suspects is expected to provide further insight into the networks fueling insecurity in Benue.
For now, the arrests offer a glimmer of hope to communities battered by relentless violence, though the road to lasting peace remains challenging.
Sources: Daily Post Nigeria
