The Benue State Police Command has arrested 34 foreign nationals in separate operations across the state, as authorities investigate concerns surrounding their immigration status and movements within Nigeria.
The arrests involve 16 Cameroonian nationals apprehended in Otukpo Local Government Area on October 9 and 18 Nigerien nationals intercepted at Orokam in Ogbadigbo Local Government Area on October 22.
Benue State Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, disclosed the development on Tuesday while briefing journalists on the command’s security operations at its headquarters in Makurdi.
Police Investigate Circumstances Surrounding Arrests
According to the police commissioner, the 16 Cameroonians told investigators they had come to settle in Otukpo but were unable to provide a clear explanation for their decision to move to the area.
Nwadiogbu expressed concern about the town’s growing attraction to foreign nationals whose movements, he said, had raised security questions.
He noted that the police were working to establish the reasons behind their presence in the community.
The 18 Nigerien nationals were intercepted at Orokam while reportedly travelling to Ikom in Cross River State. Police said they could not provide the required travel documents and had been transferred for further investigation.
The command is working with relevant authorities, including the Nigeria Immigration Service, to verify the suspects’ immigration status and determine the appropriate action under the law.
Police Yet to Establish Links to Specific Crimes
Although the arrests have raised security concerns, the police have not disclosed evidence linking the 34 foreign nationals to specific criminal offences.
Investigations are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding their entry into Nigeria and their movements within Benue State.
The commissioner also referred to the recent arrest of Pakistani nationals in Otukpo, saying the development had added to questions about the town’s growing attraction to foreign nationals.
Authorities are expected to determine the next steps after completing the necessary investigations and immigration checks.
The police have urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could help prevent crime and protect lives and property.
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