The police in Benue State have arrested 26 suspected cultists from different locations in Makurdi metropolis.
Our correspondent reports that there has been an unrest of suspected cultists disturbances in North Bank vicinity of Makurdi metropolis in recent times, leading to the killings of several people including a soldier.
Police spokesperson in the state, SP Catherine Anene, in a statement on Wednesday, noted that the arrest of the 26 suspects was achieved through detailed intelligence gathering.
Anene stated, “Following the upsurge of cult activities and other criminal activities in North Bank, Makurdi, the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Police Command, CP. Steve H. Yabanet, ordered all Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Commanders to clampdown on cultism and other crimes within their areas of responsibility.
“The renewed commitment of the command led to the arrest of 26 suspected cultist/armed robbers within Makurdi metropolis. Suspects arrested include Auwal Sani AKA Flasher (44), Sabo Abdullahi (31), Idris Ibrahim (20), Shaapera Emmanuel (23) among others.
“These suspects were arrested at their various hideouts after gathering detailed intelligence about their activities. Exhibits recovered include; two locally made pistols loaded with live ammunition and illicit drugs.”
The police spokesperson further stated that investigation was ongoing to arrest other suspects.