Benue Police Arrest Man For Staging Own Kidnap, Nab 7 Suspected Criminals

The Benue State Police Command has arrested a man for allegedly staging his own kidnapping to extort ₦7 million from his family, while also announcing the arrest of seven other suspected criminals in a series of coordinated operations across the state.

According to the Command, the incident began on May 19, 2026, in Ushongo Local Government Area after a report was filed that a young man had gone missing after leaving with a suspected acquaintance, followed by a ransom demand of ₦7 million sent to his family.

Police investigators, acting on the complaint, launched an intelligence-led operation that led to the arrest of a suspect linked to the case. Further investigation, supported by technical intelligence, later led to the arrest of two additional suspects in Katsina-Ala on May 22, 2026 — including the purported victim himself, who was allegedly found to have conspired in staging the kidnapping.

“The suspects are currently in custody as investigation continues,” the Command said.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, the Command also disclosed the arrest of seven suspected kidnappers and armed robbers in separate operations across the state, alongside the recovery of a stolen vehicle, firearms, and ammunition.

According to the statement, on May 21, 2026, tactical operatives acting on credible intelligence stormed Gboko Local Government Area, where five suspected armed robbers and kidnappers were arrested after engaging police officers in a gun duel.

Items recovered from the suspects included two locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, two pistols, and several rounds of live ammunition. The suspects are currently in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department for further interrogation.

In another operation on May 22, 2026, operatives attached to the Otukpo Division intercepted a Lexus RX 350 vehicle reportedly snatched at gunpoint in Owerri, Imo State. One suspect was arrested while attempting to move the vehicle through Benue State.

The Command also said it made progress in separate investigations involving armed robbery and attempted culpable homicide in Ushongo LGA, leading to additional arrests and the recovery of a stolen motorcycle linked to one of the cases.

In a related development, police uncovered a suspected human trafficking and job racketeering syndicate allegedly involved in recruiting young women under false promises of overseas employment. Preliminary findings indicate that victims were trafficked and exploited before some managed to escape and return to Nigeria. One suspect has been arrested in connection with the syndicate, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend others believed to be operating abroad.

Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, commended the operatives for their professionalism and resilience, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to sustained operations against violent crime in the state.

“The Command remains committed to sustaining aggressive operations against kidnapping, armed robbery, human trafficking, and other violent crimes across Benue State,” he said, urging residents to provide timely and credible information to security agencies through designated emergency lines or the nearest police station.