By Winnie Onu, Makurdi
A suspected kidnapping gang leader, Yusuf Muhammed, has been arrested in Orokam community of Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State by security forces who have recorded a major breakthrough in the fight against crime within the area.
Muhammed, popularly known as the “OC Torture” in the kidnappers’ camp, was captured after a hot chase by a tactical squad led by DSP Stephen Ubobong.
His identity was confirmed by three former hostages, who recounted his brutal treatment of victims and pointed him out easily due to a deformity on his left hand.
The arrest follows heightened security operations in Orokam after a surge in abductions prompted the Council Chairman, Hon. Sunday Ajunwa, to impose a dusk-to-dawn curfew and seek reinforcements from the Benue State Police Command.
It was gathered that since then, more than 20 suspects have been taken into custody, with Muhammed’s capture seen as the biggest breakthrough.
Residents of Orokam have hailed the development, though some victims expressed fears that the suspect could regain freedom if compromised by corruption within the system.
The resident urged the Inspector-General of Police to ensure strict handling of the case.
Confirming the arrest to newsmen in Makurdi, the Ogbadigbo LGA Chairman, Ajunwa noted that Muhammed, a Fulani man, was apprehended with the help of police officers from Makurdi and Enugu, alongside local vigilantes and community youths.
He disclosed that confessional statements from victims nailed the suspect and added that security in the area had since stabilised, though the curfew remains in force pending further review.
