Suspected bandit dies in custody after arrest in Benue, 10 others in detention

Suspected bandit dies in custody after arrest in Benue, 10 others in detention

By: Zagazola Makama

A suspected bandit, Abu Alhaji, who was arrested during a security operation in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue, has died while receiving treatment at the Benue State Teaching Hospital, Makurdi.

Zagazola Makama gathered that the deceased was arrested on June 1, following a tip-off about the presence of armed bandits allied to the notorious gang leader, Amakaa Akwaza, popularly known as “Konyo,” at a hideout in Nagu, Katsina-Ala LGA.

“Upon receipt of the intelligence at about 1140hrs, security personnel mobilised to the location and engaged the armed bandits in a fierce gun battle.

One Abu Alhaji ‘m’ was overpowered and arrested with an AK-47 rifle loaded with 16 rounds of live ammunition. Ten other suspects believed to be working with the Konyo gang to destabilise the Sankera axis were also apprehended and taken into custody at the Operation Zenda detention facility in Makurdi.

However, police sources said that at about 0305hrs on June 3, the suspect, Abu Alhaji, developed health complications and was rushed to the Benue State Teaching Hospital where he later died while receiving treatment.

The corpse has since been deposited at the hospital’s morgue for autopsy.

The sources said investigation into the activities of the remaining suspects was ongoing.

Suspected bandit dies in custody after arrest in Benue, 10 others in detention