*N10m demanded as ransom, tax collector among the suspects
The Benue State Police Command has announced the arrest of a traditional ruler and 17 other suapects for alleged kidnapping of two traders in Mchia Market, in Logo Local Government Area of Benue State.
The Police also said they rescued the kidnap victims and recovered firearms from the suspects.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Catherine Anene, who disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, explained that “on 23/11/2023 at about 18:00hrs, information was received at Logo Police Division that a group of bandits armed with dangerous weapons mobilised and invaded a market at Mchia, Logo LGA, and kidnapped two traders”.
According to the police spokesperson, “upon the receipt of this information, which was relayed to Police Headquarters Makurdi, the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP. George Chuku, ordered the deployment of tactical teams to raid the area and ensure that victims were rescued.
“On the 25/11/1023, Police team stormed a hideout and the two victims were rescued at the compound of Zaki Tule Nyam, a tax collector.
“The victims stated that they were held hostage and their families were given one week to source for N10million as ransom before they could be released, before the poloce arrived and rescued them.
“Consequently, Zaki Nyam and the 17 other suspects were arrested right there in the compound for further investigation.
“Items recovered from them include one dane gun and a matchet,” she said.
The PPRO added that while investigations into the matter was on-going, the Commissioner of Police enjoined the people of Logo LGA to cooperate with Police teams sent to the area by giving them useful information for the arrest of the criminals for prosecution.
