Police arrest notorious bandit responsible for deadly attacks in Benue

In a major breakthrough for security in Benue State, police operatives have arrested a suspected notorious bandit linked to several deadly attacks on security personnel in the region.

The suspect, identified as Yongu Justine Makwagh from Kadarko in Nasarawa State, was apprehended on Friday evening at Balcony Park in Makurdi following months of careful and discreet surveillance.

The arrest was reported by Zagazola Makama, a counterinsurgency publication known for tracking security operations across the Lake Chad region. Authorities say this arrest is expected to significantly disrupt the bandit’s network and bolster security efforts in Benue State.

The Divisional Police Officer of Daudu reportedly led the operation, acting on credible intelligence and backed by officers of the Inspector-General of Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT) on special assignment.

Makwagh is said to have long featured on the command’s wanted list over multiple violent incidents, especially in the troubled Sankera axis.

Sources revealed he was linked to the killing of two Safer Highway Police officers at Yelwata, as well as two operatives of the Department of Operations (DOPS) in Daudu, during which the attackers also carted away firearms.

Security sources described the arrest as a significant breakthrough in ongoing efforts to dismantle bandit networks operating within Benue and neighbouring states.

Police authorities confirmed that the suspect is now in custody and undergoing interrogation, with further investigations underway to recover additional weapons and track down his accomplices.