FIC Report (Benue State) – On 20th November 2025, at about 1830hrs, the Benue State Police Command received a distress call reporting a stolen Bajaj motorcycle that had been tracked to a compound along George Akume Way, Makurdi. Police patrol teams immediately moved to the location and met a large gathering of youths. A search of the premises led to the recovery of eleven (11) suspected stolen motorcycles, forty-seven (47) motorcycle seats, multiple fuel tanks, criminal charms, three (3) mattresses, one (1) single-barrel firearm, and other exhibits.
Two suspects initially escaped but were apprehended by members of the public opposite the BIPC Company along George Akume Way. Sadly, they were lynched before the arrival of the police. They were rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Wadata, where a doctor confirmed them dead. Their remains have been deposited at the hospital mortuary, while the State CID has taken over further investigation.
Similarly, on the same day at about 1705hrs, police operatives on patrol along the Orokam–Enugu Road intercepted a suspicious vehicle and arrested three female suspects: Mrs. Monica Okonkwo, 57 years; Nkiru Nwosu, 55 years; and Oyechele Francisca, 57 years, all of Umude Oka Dunukofia, Anambra State. The suspects were found conveying six children: Amanda Chukwujekwu (F, 8yrs), Chioma Maduagwu (F, 8yrs), Oyechegi Kosisochukwu (F, 9yrs), Okonkwo Odinaka Chukwu (F, 9yrs), Arinze Chukwu (M, 7yrs), and Oluchukwu Esther (F, 9yrs).
Preliminary investigations revealed that the children were taken from Divine Peace and Grace Orphanage, Jos, Plateau State, under questionable circumstances, with the suspects claiming they were transporting them to Anambra State. The children have been safely rescued and placed under protective care, while the suspects are currently in custody as the State CID continues investigations.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari PhD, psc, mnips, strongly condemns all forms of mob action, describing it as a dangerous trend that obstructs justice, violates fundamental human rights, and undermines police investigations. He urges members of the public to always report incidents and hand over suspects to lawful authorities.
The Command reaffirms its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Benue State and will continue to update the public as investigations progress.
Signed
VERONICA AZEMBA
For Head of Center FIC Makurdi
