The Benue State Police Command has arrested a 20-year-old man suspected of supplying ammunition to bandits during a stop-and-search operation in Guma Local Government Area of the state.
The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Peter Aondona, disclosed the arrest in a statement issued to journalists in Makurdi on Friday.
According to the statement, the suspect, identified as Joro Jarkata, was apprehended on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, after operatives attached to the Guma Division intercepted two men travelling on a motorcycle during a proactive patrol.
Aondona said one of the occupants fled immediately after spotting the police.
“Upon sighting the police, one of the occupants alighted from the motorcycle and fled into a nearby bush.
“The remaining suspect, identified as Joro Jarkata, a 20-year-old male from Awe Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, was apprehended.
“A search conducted on him led to the recovery of one hundred and fifteen (115) rounds of live 7.62mm ammunition concealed in his possession,” the statement read in part.
The police spokesperson said Jarkata is currently in custody, while the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Makurdi for further investigation.
He added that efforts were underway to track down the fleeing suspect and determine the source of the ammunition, where it was being taken, and the circumstances surrounding its movement.
Aondona said the Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Cletus Nwadiogbu, praised the officers involved in the operation for their vigilance, professionalism and swift response, which resulted in the recovery.
The commissioner also reaffirmed the command’s determination to tackle the spread of illegal firearms and ammunition, as well as dismantle criminal networks threatening the security of the state.
He further urged residents to remain alert and report suspicious individuals or activities to the nearest police station to support ongoing security efforts.