The Benue State Police Command has arrested no fewer than 41 suspected criminals during a coordinated raid on identified black spots in Wurukum and Wadata areas of Makurdi, following intelligence reports of criminal activities in the axis.
The state PPRO, Edet Udeme, confirmed to newsmen on Tuesday that the operation, which covered Awe Street, Wurukum and parts of Wadata, was carried out as part of ongoing efforts to rid the state capital of criminal elements.
“A raid of black spots was organised at Awe Street, Wurukum and Wadata, where 41 suspects were arrested and are currently undergoing screening.
“Investigations are ongoing, and additional information will be provided as it becomes available,” the source said.
The police action came amid disturbing accounts from residents and a survivor who narrowly escaped what she described as an attempted abduction while returning home late in the evening.
According to her account, she boarded a commercial motorcycle in the International Market–Wurukum axis around 8:30 pm, after attending a religious programme.
The rider allegedly diverted from the agreed route under the guise of purchasing fuel and later claimed he needed to pick up a parcel around Awe Street.
The survivor said she was later abandoned in the area and confronted by young men who forcefully took her phone and attempted to drag her into a nearby house.
She alleged that inside the building were several young women, some already restrained, suggesting an organised criminal operation.
Although police have not officially confirmed the details of the claims, security sources said such testimonies form part of intelligence inputs that inform targeted raids and surveillance operations.
The Command assured residents that patrols have been intensified across flashpoints in Makurdi, particularly in areas previously linked to robbery, kidnapping and human trafficking.
The Police Command reiterated its commitment to ensuring public safety and urged members of the public to cooperate by providing credible information.
