The Benue State Police Command has arrested a 20-year-old man allegedly linked to the supply of ammunition to bandits during a security operation in Guma Local Government Area of the state.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Peter Aondona, disclosed the arrest in a statement issued on Friday in Makurdi, saying the suspect, identified as Joro Jarkata, was apprehended during a stop and search operation carried out by operatives of the Guma Division on July 28.
According to the police spokesman, officers intercepted two men riding on a motorcycle, but one of the occupants reportedly jumped off the bike and fled into a nearby bush after noticing the presence of security operatives.
He said the second suspect, Jarkata, who hails from Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, was arrested at the scene.
A search conducted on the suspect led to the recovery of 115 rounds of live 7.62mm ammunition allegedly concealed in his possession.
Aondona said the suspect remains in police custody while the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Makurdi for further investigation.
He added that detectives were working to arrest the fleeing accomplice and determine the source of the ammunition, its intended destination, and other circumstances surrounding its movement.
The police spokesperson said the Commissioner of Police in the state, Cletus Nwadiogbu, commended the officers involved in the operation for their vigilance and professionalism, describing the recovery as a significant step in efforts to curb the circulation of illegal firearms and ammunition.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks and strengthening security across Benue State.
The commissioner also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons and activities to the nearest police formation to support ongoing efforts to combat crime.