Kidnap Gang Leader Arrested in Benue: Police Capture Notorious Yusuf Muhamed in Ogbadibo
By MUHAMMED DANBABA
Kidnap gang leader arrested in Benue – Police operatives and vigilantes captured notorious kidnapper Yusuf Muhamed in Ogbadibo after weeks of terror in the community.
Police Nab Kidnap Gang Leader in Benue State
Security forces in Benue State have recorded a major success as a kidnap gang leader arrested in Benue was identified as Yusuf Muhamed, a notorious figure responsible for terrorizing residents of Ogbadibo Local Government Area.
The operation took place in Orokam, where a combined team of policemen from Benue and Enugu States, supported by local vigilantes, apprehended the suspect. His arrest followed weeks of unrest that had forced the council chairman to impose a curfew.
Residents Identify the Suspect
Eyewitnesses said the suspect’s arrest brought relief to the community. Mike Agbo, a resident, confirmed that Muhamed was captured along with members of his gang during the week.
Three kidnapped victims quickly identified him, revealing that he served as the “officer in charge of torture” within the kidnappers’ camp. His victims said he was notorious for brutalizing captives to instill fear.
They also pointed out his bad left hand, which made him easily recognizable. This physical mark played a critical role in linking him directly to the crimes.
Ogbadibo Chairman Confirms the Arrest
Confirming the incident, the chairman of Ogbadibo Local Government, Sunday Ajunwa, praised the joint effort of the police and vigilantes. He explained that Yusuf initially attempted to escape but was caught after determined youths pursued him.
“It is true that Yusuf has been arrested by the combined team of Police from Makurdi and Enugu as well as the vigilante in the area. He attempted to run but the youths pursued and caught him,” Ajunwa said.
The chairman also revealed that the suspect, together with 21 other gang members, is currently in police custody. Their arrest represents a turning point in the fight against kidnapping in the council.
Why a Curfew Was Imposed in Orokam
Due to repeated kidnappings, killings, and harassment, Chairman Ajunwa had earlier declared a 6 pm to 6 am curfew in Orokam. He explained that insecurity had reached alarming levels, and the curfew was necessary to protect lives.
Following the arrest of the kidnap gang leader in Benue, the chairman noted that security has improved significantly. He hinted at lifting the curfew soon after consultations with security agencies and community stakeholders.
“The security situation in Orokam is stable though the curfew from 6 pm to 6 am is still enforced. But I am thinking of lifting it after meeting with security agencies and stakeholders,” he added.
Police Reaction to the Arrest
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for Benue State Command, DSP Udeme Edet, stated that she had not yet received the official report on the arrest. She assured journalists that details would be released once confirmation was complete.
This cautious response highlights how fresh the development is, and it signals that investigations are ongoing.
Community Relief After the Arrest
The arrest of the Yusuf Muhamed kidnap gang leader has been described by residents as a huge relief. Parents in Orokam said they can now allow their children to move more freely without the constant fear of abduction. Farmers also expressed optimism about returning to their fields without the anxiety of being kidnapped.
One resident explained that the curfew had disrupted daily activities, but people were willing to endure it because it offered protection. Now, with the gang leader in custody, many hope for a full return to normal life.
The Significance of the Arrest
The capture of Yusuf Muhamed carries strong implications for security in Benue and neighboring states. For years, kidnapping rings have operated with relative ease, taking advantage of weak surveillance in rural communities.
This arrest shows that cooperation between state police units and local vigilantes can produce effective results. It also highlights the importance of community vigilance, as residents played a vital role in identifying and tracking the suspect.
Next Steps for Security Forces
Experts believe that this arrest should not end the fight. Security agencies must investigate Yusuf’s wider network and bring other accomplices to justice. Trials of the suspects will also be closely watched, as families of victims seek closure.
There are also calls for improved intelligence-sharing between police commands across states, so that cross-border criminals cannot escape by simply relocating.
Conclusion
The kidnap gang leader arrested in Benue is a victory for law enforcement and a source of hope for the people of Ogbadibo. With Yusuf Muhamed in custody, residents can expect more stability. However, sustainable peace will require ongoing vigilance, proactive policing, and community cooperation.
As authorities move forward, citizens remain hopeful that this marks the beginning of the end for kidnapping syndicates in Benue State.
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