The Police in Benue State have killed four suspected armed criminals during a gun duel in different locations across the state within the past few weeks.

State Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, who disclosed this yesterday during a press conference at the command’s headquarters in Makurdi, said 20 other suspects were arrested in connection with kidnapping, armed banditry and robbery.

Nwadiogbu explained that the police operations in Logo Local Government Area resulted in the killing of three armed suspects, while another armed suspect was killed on August 26 during an operation at the Ayilamo axis of the LGA.

He noted that the exchange occurred where armed bandits were reportedly pursuing farmers and destroying crops.

The commissioner also said the command foiled an armed robbery attempt at Ayati village in Gwer East LGA on August 9, forcing the suspects to flee and abandon a locally fabricated revolver firearm and live cartridges.

He further noted that the operations led to the recovery of three AK-47 rifles, 33 rounds of ammunition and other firearms.

Nwadiogbu said the command also recovered two motorcycles, a Toyota Corolla, several locally fabricated firearms and suspected criminal charms from the suspects.

He further disclosed that five of the 20 suspects were arrested in connection with a vehicle and motorcycle theft syndicate, following an investigation that led detectives to Dan-Anacha in Gassol LGA of Taraba State, where two red Bajaj motorcycles and a Toyota Corolla were recovered.

Nwadiogbu warned criminals involved in the illegal possession and trafficking of firearms that Benue State would not provide a safe haven for criminal activities, urging residents to remain vigilant and provide the police with credible information on suspicious persons, movements and activities in their communities. (Daily Trust)