The Benue State Police Command has arrested Yusuf Muhamed, a wanted kidnap kingpin, at Orokam in Ogbadibo Local Government Area (LGA). Alongside him, 21 other suspects linked to a series of kidnappings in the area were also taken into custody.
Sources disclosed that Yusuf, a physically challenged man nicknamed “OC Torture” by his gang members, was tracked and apprehended following several days of surveillance. Some of his victims helped identify him, aiding law enforcement in their manhunt.
The gang’s violent activities recently escalated, culminating in the murder of a mother and her visiting son during a failed kidnap attempt, sparking public outrage. The incident prompted Ogbadibo LGA Chairman, Sunday Ajunwa, to impose a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Orokam about two weeks ago.
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Ajunwa commended the combined efforts of the police tactical team, Mobile Police Squad, and Civil Protection Guards, saying their operation yielded “the positive result we are celebrating today.” He added that local cooperation is key to curbing crime in the state.
“The suspect attempted to escape, but local youths pursued and captured him. Confessional statements from his victims detailed the torture he inflicted in captivity,” Ajunwa said. “Security in Orokam is stable, and the curfew may be lifted soon after consultations with security agencies and stakeholders.”
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, confirmed she had not yet been briefed on the operation at the time of reporting.
