20-Year-Old’s Journey Ends in Police Custody

A routine stop-and-search operation by the Benue State Police Command has led to the arrest of a 20-year-old man suspected of supplying weapons to armed bandits operating in parts of the state.

The suspect, identified as Joro Jarkata, was apprehended by operatives of the Guma Police Division during a proactive security operation in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Peter Aondona, disclosed the development in a statement made available to journalists in Makurdi on Friday.

According to the police spokesperson, the arrest took place on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, when officers conducting a routine stop-and-search exercise intercepted two men travelling on a motorcycle. Their suspicious movement prompted the officers to carry out a thorough search and investigation.

Preliminary findings by the police allegedly linked Jarkata to the illegal supply of arms to suspected bandits responsible for criminal activities in parts of the state. The second rider is also assisting investigators as police work to determine his level of involvement.

DSP Aondona said the suspect is currently in police custody and is cooperating with investigators. He added that efforts are ongoing to uncover the wider criminal network behind the alleged arms supply and to apprehend other suspects connected to the operation.

The Benue State Police Command reassured residents of its commitment to tackling insecurity across the state through intelligence-driven operations, patrols and strategic stop-and-search exercises. The command also urged members of the public to continue providing credible information that will assist security agencies in combating crime.

Investigations into the matter are ongoing, and the suspect will be charged to court upon the conclusion of police investigations.

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