The Benue State Community Volunteer Guards (BSCVG) detained a 29-year-old artisan in the Wadata area of Makurdi, the state capital, for illegal possession of a handgun.
The confrontation occurred approximately 8 p.m. on December 26th, as the suspect sought to elude capture by BSCVG officers.
The arrest occurred after the BSCVG received a tip-off about a group of people ingesting a substance suspected to be Indian hemp in the Wadata neighborhood, according to retired Capt Ayomi Ajovbi, the Commander of the Benue State Volunteer Guards, who paraded the suspect on Saturday.
“Our men, acting on a tip-off, had gone to the hideout of a group of people who were said to be taking a substance known as Indian hemp at Wadata,” Ajovbi explained.
“In the process, the suspect brandished a gun and threatened to shoot our men, creating tension in the area.”
He further alleged that while being pursued, the suspect, later identified as Ochoepu, escaped inside a nearby shop.
During the chase, he dropped the handgun while attempting to use it. One of the BSCVG operatives acted quickly, apprehending Ochoepu before additional assistance arrived, resulting in his detention.
Based on his behavior and conduct, the commander labeled Ochoepu as a cultist. The suspect will be turned over to the appropriate authorities for investigation and prosecution.
Speaking to journalists, Ochoepu denied owning the rifle that fell from him before to his detention.
Commander Ajovbi, on the other hand, reaffirmed the BSCVG’s commitment to ensuring peace and security in the state, warning that those who wish to stir disturbance will face the consequences.
He stated that BSCVG operators across communities are collaborating with other security organizations to successfully handle illegal activities.