Suspicious Northern Group Nabbed in Benue After Community Alert

Authorities in Benue State have detained 33 individuals from Northern Nigeria following their sudden and unexplained arrival in Makurdi, which triggered significant community alarm. The group arrived in two buses and attempted to take up residence in a private property located in the Gyado Villa area.

The suspicious activity prompted immediate reports from vigilant residents, youth leaders, and staff of the nearby Villa Suites. This swift community response led to a distress call being escalated to the state government.

Acting on the alert, a high-level delegation including the Benue State Commissioner for Works and Housing, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, the Makurdi Local Government Chairman, the ALGON Chairman, and security operatives swiftly moved to the location for verification and control.

According to a report by DailyPost, Asortar James Asortar, Special Assistant to the Governor on Social Media, confirmed that the 33 men had been brought into the state by a company registered only last month, on May 8, and were presented as staff of a purported NGO.

James stated, “Upon arrival at Villa Suites, it was discovered that all 33 individuals were brought in that same day from different northern states.” He added that initial interviews revealed most could not speak English, and their purpose for settling in a private house within the community remained entirely unclear.

Security operatives have taken the group into custody for thorough interrogation to determine the true nature of their mission in Benue State.

James emphasized that the vigilance demonstrated by the youths of Gyado Villa and the staff of Villa Suites was crucial in preventing what could potentially have escalated into a serious security breach.

In reaction to the incident, the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, expressed appreciation for the community’s timely response.

“We thank the youth of Gyado Villa and the Villa Suites team for sounding the alarm on time. Your vigilance is deeply appreciated,” Governor Alia said. “This incident further underscores the importance of staying alert and reporting anything suspicious.”