By Godwin Edeh
A suspected armed robber was gunned down along Makurdi-Lafia road by a team of police officers recently deployed to the route.
This is in response to the earlier reports that armed robbers were regrouping and attacking motorists on Makurdi-Lafia road and the command immediately deployed patrol teams on the trunk to ensure adequate security and safety of motorists.
On the strength of the report, on 31 March, 2021 at about 10:00 am, patrol team encountered armed robbers in military and police uniforms robbing commuters of theirs belongings.
According to the press release signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Catherine Anene, Benue State Police Command, on sighting the police, the robbers engaged them in a gun battle but were over powered by the superior fire of the police and were subsequently neutralised and repelled to a nearby bush.
In the course of the exchange, one of the robbers sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi where he was confirmed dead. Corpse of the suspected robber has been deposited at the hospital morgue while investigation is still in progress.
Meanwhile, the Benue State Police Command has reiterated its readiness to provide adequate security during and after the Easter celebration.
The Commissioner of Police Benue state command, CP Audu Madaki has ordered a watertight security and has fully deployed special units and other team of officers to ensure adequate security during and after the Easter celebration. The CP specifically ordered deployment of officers to churches, event centers and identified black spots to ensure a hitch free celebration.
In addition, police team has been deployed to major towns in the state for vehicular and foot patrols while commanding and supervisory officers are to remain in their areas of responsibility and ensure that their subordinates carry out their duties as specified in the operation order.
The release further stated that, the general public is by this notice reminded that enforcement of Liquor Act and restriction on movement of motorcycles continues during Easter celebration.
The CP describes this enforcement as part of efforts to fight crime and ensure regard for rule of law in the state. Liquor sellers are advised to obtain licence for sale of liquor and sale within the hours specified on their licences and in the Liquor Act.
CP Madaki who felicitates with Christian faithful in the state called on men and officers to be courteous but firm in the course of their duties.
