The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of two serving police sergeants over their alleged involvement in an armed robbery operation that led to the recovery of a stolen vehicle and weapons.
The arrest, which has caused shock and concern among residents, followed a surveillance operation by police operatives acting on credible intelligence.
According to police sources, the suspects were arrested while allegedly attempting to escape with a vehicle that had earlier been snatched at gunpoint.
The incident reportedly began in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, where a red Toyota Corolla, 2010 model, with registration number NEG-35-AE, was stolen during an armed robbery.
After receiving intelligence that the stolen vehicle was heading towards Keffi, security operatives mounted surveillance and monitoring along possible routes.
It was gathered that operatives of the Benue State Police Command’s surveillance patrol team spotted the vehicle and attempted to stop it at a police checkpoint located at Angwan Lambu.
However, the suspects allegedly refused to stop and forcefully breached the checkpoint, prompting the officers on duty to give chase.
A security source said the chase involved coordination between different security points in the area to prevent the suspects from escaping.
The pursuit eventually ended at a military checkpoint close to Uke, where the suspects were successfully stopped and arrested.
During a search of the vehicle, police recovered several items believed to have been used in the alleged robbery.
According to the police, the exhibits recovered included one AK-47 rifle with a breech number, three magazines loaded with 16 rounds of live ammunition, one black face mask, three mobile phones and other personal belongings.
The police later identified the suspects as serving officers of the Nigeria Police Force.
They were named as Sergeant Shedrack Abednego, attached to the Special Tactical Squad (STS) of the Force Intelligence Department in Abuja, and Sergeant John Ayuba, attached to the CP Crack Squad of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command.
The Benue State Police Command confirmed the arrest and said investigations were ongoing to determine the level of the suspects’ involvement in the crime.
Police sources said investigators are also working to find out whether the suspects are linked to other criminal activities within or outside Benue State.
The arrest of serving police officers for alleged armed robbery has raised serious concerns about misconduct within the security agencies.
In recent years, there have been public complaints about some criminal elements operating under the cover of law enforcement uniforms.
The Nigeria Police Force has repeatedly stated that it does not tolerate criminal behaviour among its officers and has pledged to deal decisively with any personnel found wanting.
Police authorities say cases like this show that the force is committed to cleaning up its ranks.
A senior police officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the arrest should serve as a warning to others.
“No officer is above the law,” the source said.
“If you commit a crime, you will be investigated and prosecuted, no matter your rank.”
The Benue State Police Command assured members of the public that the suspects would face disciplinary action in line with police regulations, in addition to prosecution in court if found guilty.
Under police rules, officers involved in serious crimes can be dismissed and handed over for trial.
The command also urged the public to continue to cooperate with the police by providing timely and credible information.
Benue State, like many other parts of the country, has faced security challenges including armed robbery, kidnapping and violent crime.
Residents have often expressed fear and frustration over attacks on highways and in communities.
The involvement of a military checkpoint in the arrest of the suspects highlights the importance of joint operations and cooperation among security agencies.
The police said such partnerships help to improve response time and prevent criminals from escaping.
Meanwhile, human rights groups have called for transparency in the investigation and prosecution of the suspects.
They argue that cases involving security personnel must be handled openly to restore public trust.
As investigations continue, the police have promised to provide updates on the case.
For many Nigerians, the arrest is a reminder of the need for constant oversight and reform within the security sector.
The outcome of the case is expected to test the police leadership’s commitment to accountability and justice.
Residents of Benue State have expressed hope that the matter will be handled fairly and thoroughly.
They say holding erring officers accountable is important for restoring confidence in law enforcement and ensuring public safety.