Three of the suspects were arrested on August 4, 2026, at Adoka Motor Park in Otukpo Local Government Area after police operatives acted on credible intelligence.
The suspects were identified as Younas Mohammad, 36; Ahmad Nunil, 38; and Aslam Muhammad, 46. They were reportedly intercepted while attempting to board a vehicle heading to Adoka village.
According to the police spokesperson, DSP Orchia Peter Aondongu, the suspects told investigators that they had travelled to Otukpo to market cosmetics and mobile devices. However, the items they claimed to be selling were reportedly not found in their possession.
The police said the explanation raised further questions about their activities and movements in the area, prompting further investigation.
In a separate operation conducted on August 5, police arrested two other Pakistani nationals at a hotel in Ugbokolo. They were identified as Juma Sharif, 30, and Muhammed Sharif, 25.
The two suspects reportedly told investigators that they were involved in the sale of Android phones. A search of their belongings led to the recovery of 11 Tecno Camon 50 Pro phones.
Further investigation and operational follow-up resulted in the recovery of an additional 24 phones, comprising 23 Tecno Camon 50 Pro devices and one Infinix Hot 60, bringing the total number of recovered phones to 35.
The five suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Makurdi for further questioning and detailed investigation.
Police said investigators are working to establish the circumstances surrounding the suspects’ presence in Benue, as well as their activities and movements across the state.
The command added that it was also investigating whether the phones could have been used as a cover for other activities in rural communities.
Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, Cletus Nwadiogbu, commended the officers involved in the operations and thanked members of the public whose information contributed to the arrests.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious individuals, movements and activities to security agencies.
“The Command will continue to work with relevant stakeholders and members of the public to maintain peace and security across Benue State. The public will be updated as the investigation progress,” the statement added.
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