The Benue State Police Command says it has arrested members of a syndicate involved in illegal fabrication of firearms.
The Public Relations Officer for the command, Sewuese Anene, said the syndicate was busted during a November 15 operation on Adikpo–Vandeikya Road.
The PPRO said, “On 15th November the team stormed their hideout and arrested one Fater Terkula and Jem Demesugh.
“An on-the-spot search of the hideout led to the recovery of the six locally-fabricated barretta pistols and motorcycle.
“Further investigation led to the arrest of Ternenge kpamngu, Terkula Ihyungwa, also known as Japan, Aondo Kusugh, Chukwudi Udeh and nine others.
“Additional exhibits recovered from them include two gas cylinders, one welding cylinder, two welding nozzles and a Sienna bus.
“The suspects confessed that they have been in the business of producing and selling arms as well as training teenagers in arms manufacturing.
“Three teenagers of less than 13 years of age were also arrested at the training ground.”
Anene said the command also arrested two suspected armed robbers, after their victim, one Misaq Eke of Ugondo District, Makurdi, incidented the matter at the E Police Division.
He said a suspected ritualist was also arrested.
“During police routine patrol along Barracks Road, Makurdi, the police received information that one Godspower Oghenerumu, a suspected ritualist, his pregnant wife and five others had arrived Makurdi from Delta and were carrying out ritual activities.
“The team rushed to the scene and arrested the spiritual leader, his wife and five others.
“During our investigation, followers of the ritualist stated that they were involved in some ritual activities in Delta that did not yield any money as promised. So, Godspower told them that the spirit had directed that they should move to Benue where further directives would be given to them on how money would be made.”
