The Benue State Community Volunteer Guards (BSCVG) has arrested a 29-year-old artisan for illegal possession of a firearm in the Wadata area of Makurdi, the state capital.
The incident occurred on December 26, around 8 pm, as the suspect attempted to evade arrest by BSCVG operatives.
According to retired Capt Ayomi Ajovbi, the Commander of the Benue State Volunteer Guards, who paraded the suspect on Saturday, the arrest unfolded when the BSCVG received a tip-off about a group of persons consuming a substance suspected to be Indian hemp in the Wadata neighbourhood.
Ajovbi stated, “Our men, working on a tip-off, had gone to the hideout of a group of people who were said to be taking a substance known as Indian hemp at Wadata.
“In the process, the suspect brandished a gun and threatened to shoot our men, creating tension in the area.”
He further stated that the suspect, later identified as Ochoepu, fled into a nearby shop while being pursued.
During the pursuit, the firearm dropped as he attempted to use it. One of the BSCVG operatives swiftly intervened, apprehending Ochoepu before additional support arrived, leading to his arrest.
The commander described Ochoepu as a cultist based on his behaviour and actions. The suspect will be handed over to the relevant authorities for further investigation and prosecution.
Speaking to journalists, Ochoepu denied being the owner of the gun that fell from him before his arrest.
However, Commander Ajovbi reiterated the commitment of the BSCVG to maintaining peace and security in the state, warning that individuals seeking to cause trouble will face the consequences.
He said that the BSCVG operatives across communities are working in collaboration with other security agencies to address criminal activities effectively.
