A major breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping in Benue State occurred this week as security forces arrested a suspected kidnapping kingpin, Yusuf Muhamed, in Orokam, Ogbadibo Local Government Area.
Muhamed, feared across the region and nicknamed “OC Torture” by kidnap victims, was captured on Monday after a well-coordinated chase led by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Stephen Ubobong and his team.
His arrest follows a sharp rise in kidnapping incidents in Orokam and surrounding communities, which had prompted a joint response from the Benue State Police Command and local authorities.
According to police sources, Muhamed was identified by at least three victims who had been abducted in the area. They confirmed that he was responsible for torturing captives at the kidnappers’ camp. One victim noted that his badly injured left hand made him easy to recognise.
“He was the one they called OC Torture. He used to beat us. Everyone feared him,” one of the victims told investigators.
The victims’ testimonies are now key evidence in the case, and security officials are treating the arrest as a significant step toward dismantling the criminal network operating in the region.
Orokam, located in southern Benue, has seen a wave of kidnapping and violent crime in recent months. The worsening security situation led the Chairman of Ogbadibo Local Government Area, Hon. Sunday Ajunwa, to hold emergency meetings with the Benue State Commissioner of Police and other top security agencies.
As a result, a dusk-to-dawn curfew was imposed on the area, while a tactical squad, Mobile Police units, and operatives from the Civil Protection Guard were deployed to comb the region and restore order.
So far, over 20 suspects have been arrested during the security sweep, but officials say Muhamed’s arrest is by far the most important, as he is believed to be one of the leaders of the criminal group.
The arrest has been welcomed by many residents of Orokam and neighbouring villages, who have lived in fear of kidnapping for months. Community leaders and residents expressed relief that a key figure in the crime wave had finally been caught.
However, some former victims and concerned locals fear that corruption or political interference could allow the suspect to escape justice.
“We are happy, but also scared. If this man is released without trial, it will be worse for us,” said a local farmer who narrowly escaped an attempted kidnapping last month.
Victims have appealed directly to the Inspector General of Police to closely monitor the investigation and prosecution of Yusuf Muhamed to ensure that justice is served.
Speaking after the arrest, Hon. Sunday Ajunwa praised the courage and dedication of the security forces, especially the leadership of DSP Stephen Ubobong, in making the operation a success.
“This arrest is a clear sign that our efforts are working,” he said. “The people of Orokam deserve peace, and we will not stop until every criminal element is removed from our land.”
Ajunwa promised that the local government will continue working closely with security agencies to ensure that safety is restored across the Ogbadibo area.
He also warned anyone still involved in criminal activities to either surrender or face the full force of the law.
Benue State, especially its southern communities bordering Enugu and Kogi States, has been grappling with insecurity linked to banditry, kidnapping, and clashes between armed groups.
The state government and police have ramped up operations in recent months, launching community-based security partnerships and intensifying patrols in high-risk areas.
As investigations continue, the police have assured the public that Muhamed will face justice. The Benue State Police Command is expected to charge him soon, pending further interrogation and evidence gathering.
Residents, meanwhile, hope this marks the beginning of lasting peace in Orokam and its surroundings.
