10 Suspected Herders Remanded Over Deadly Attacks in Benue

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the remand of 10 suspected herders in connection with a string of deadly attacks in various communities across the state.

This was disclosed by the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, during his inaugural press briefing held Wednesday night at the Police Officers’ Mess in Makurdi. The CP revealed that the 10 suspects were among 42 individuals arrested for alleged involvement in killings and armed violence within the state.

CP Emenari, who assumed office on April 26, 2025, said the arrests were part of intensified efforts to tackle the security crisis in Benue, particularly in agrarian communities affected by herder violence and banditry.

He explained that tactical police units had been deployed to high-risk areas, including Ankpali in Apa, Naka in Gwer West, Ayilamo in Logo, Amafu in Katsina-Ala, Ukum, Agatu, Udei, and Yogbo in Guma LGA. According to him, many farmlands had been deserted due to fear, prompting urgent security interventions.

“We’ve already arrested 42 armed herdsmen and local bandits in the last month. Most have been charged to court, and 10 are currently remanded while others are undergoing investigation,” Emenari said.

He added that two AK-47 rifles and 21 locally made firearms were recovered from the suspects, alongside other weapons.

The CP also highlighted progress in dismantling cultist groups and apprehending kidnappers along the Makurdi-Lafia expressway, stating that such crimes had significantly reduced under the current policing strategies.

He appealed to residents of the state to cooperate with security forces and share intelligence that could aid in restoring peace, stressing that the command was committed to protecting lives, securing farmlands, and ensuring displaced residents could return home safely.