February 1, 2026 l By Dalena Reporters Staff Correspondent
MAKURDI, Benue State, Nigeria — The Nigeria Police Force has apprehended two serving police sergeants in connection with a string of violent crimes including armed robbery and the unlawful seizure of a civilian vehicle at gunpoint authorities confirmed on Sunday. The arrests follow public outcry after residents in Ogbadibo Local Government Area reported rising insecurity linked to alleged wrongdoing by uniformed personnel.
According to the statement issued by the Benue State Police Command, the suspects identified only by rank and station were detained after investigators determined they had forcefully accosted a motorist on a federal highway, threatened him with an AK-47 rifle, and stole his vehicle. The victim, whose identity was withheld for privacy and safety, immediately reported the incident to nearby police authorities, prompting a swift internal investigation.
Police sources told Dalena Reporters that the officers were on official patrol when the alleged crime occurred, making the charges particularly serious because they involve members of the security establishment exploiting their positions for criminal ends. The seized rifle, vehicle, and other paraphernalia were recovered and documented as evidence.
In the official release, the Benue command noted that the suspects would be detained and prosecuted under Nigeria’s criminal code and disciplinary regulations governing police conduct. The charges are expected to include armed robbery, unlawful possession of a firearm, abuse of office, and theft of government equipment, pending formal arraignment in a state high court.
Community leaders in Ogbadibo welcomed the arrests, asserting that the alleged involvement of active duty officers in violent crime had eroded trust between security forces and civilians. “When those meant to protect us turn against us, it undermines public confidence,” one community representative said. “We call on the justice system to pursue this case transparently.
The incident adds to ongoing concerns about police accountability in Nigeria, where episodes of misconduct involving security personnel have repeatedly drawn criticism from civil society organizations and human rights advocates. Critics argue that such conduct, when left unchecked, fuels public fear and resentment toward law enforcement institutions.
At the time of reporting, neither the Nigeria Police Force headquarters in Abuja nor the Benue State Government had provided comments beyond the initial arrest announcement. Investigators said that further interrogations were ongoing and that additional personnel might be questioned as the case develops.
The suspects will remain in custody as the legal process unfolds, and prosecutors prepare formal charges ahead of trial.