The Benue State Police Command said it arrested 20 suspected criminals in the state.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Sewuese Anene, said this in a statement on Wednesday in Makurdi, Benue.

Mr Anene said the arrested suspects were involved in different criminal activities ranging from money ritual, illegal gun running to armed robbery.

He added that the command’s operatives also recovered seven locally-fabricated beretta pistols and a motorcycle from the suspects.

He said the suspects were arrested during a police raid on their hideout along Adikpo–Vandeikya Road, following a tip off.

“On November 15, 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 beretta pistols and motorcycle,” Mr Anene disclosed.

“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 on arms manufacturing. Three teenagers of less than 13 years of age were also arrested at the training ground,” he said.

Mr Anene added that the command also arrested two suspected armed robbers, after their victim, one Misaq Eke of Ugondo District, Makurdi, reported the matter at E Police Division.

“During investigation, one Ushahemba Ayoough and Jeremiah Ugborgo, were arrested in connection with the case and one locally-fabricated beretta pistol was recovered from them.

“And during police routine patrol along Barracks road, Makurdi, it received information that one Godspower Oghenerumu, a suspected ritualist, his pregnant wife and five others had arrived in 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 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.

Investigation is ongoing on the matter,” Mr Anene said in the statement.

(NAN)