CITIZENS COMPASS —Benue state Police command on Sunday, November 26, 2023, said it has arrested a traditional ruler, Chief Tule Nyam, for his roles in harbouring a kidnapped suspect.

Spokesperson of the Command, Kate Aneene, who disclosed this in a statement said the incident occurred on Saturday, November 25, in Mchia, Logo Local Government area in Benue state.

She said a crack squad acting on information stormed a hideout of kidnappers and their victims.

According to her, the hideout where victims of kidnapping were rescued turned out to be the compound of a monarch, Chief Tule Nyam.

The statement reads: “On 23/11/2023 at about 1800hrs information was received at Logo Police Division that a group of bandits armed with dangerous weapons mobilised and invaded a market at Mchia, Logo Local Government Area and kidnapped two traders.

“Upon receipt of this information which was relayed to Police Headquarters Makurdi, the Commissioner of Police, Benue state command, CP. George Chuku psc (+) ordered the deployment of tactical teams to raid the area and ensure that victims were rescued.

“On 25/11/2023 the police team stormed a hideout where the two victims were rescued at the compound of Zaki Tule Nyam, a tax collector.

“The victims stated that they were held hostage and their families were given one week to source for N10 million and pay as ransom before their release before the arrival of the police.

“Consequently, Zaki Nyam and seventeen other suspects were arrested in the Compound for further investigation. Items recovered from them include one Dane gun and a matchet.

“While the investigation is ongoing, the CP enjoins the good people of Logo LGA to cooperate with police teams sent to the area by giving them useful information, “