FROM HENRY IYORKASE, MAKURDI

The Benue State Police Command has arrested an armed robbery suspect and recovered firearms in a daring operation in Gboko Local Government Area.

Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, who made the disclosure in Makurdi in a statement said the suspect, Liambe Orpine, 35, was arrested on September 12, 2025, at about 11 pm, while hiding with his gang members in a hideout at Gboko East.

The statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO of Benue Command, DSP Udeme Edet, said police operatives, who were on surveillance patrol, received credible information about the gang’s plan to attack and rob some designated areas.

Emenari explained that the team swiftly stormed the hideout and arrested Orpine, while other members of the gang fled upon sighting the police.

According to the Benue CP, exhibits recovered from the hideout include one AK-47 rifle, one jack knife, and three locally fabricated Dane guns.

He further revealed that the suspect is presently in custody, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing gang members, adding that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.

The Benue CP commended the gallantry of Operation Zenda Joint Task Force operatives and reassured the good people of Benue State of the command’s unwavering commitment to rid the state of criminal elements.

He urged members of the public to continue providing timely and useful information to the police to ensure a safer society for all.