MAKURDI — In a startling breach of professional ethics, two serving Police Sergeants have been arrested for allegedly leading a violent carjacking and armed robbery operation spanning Nasarawa and Benue States.
The suspects, identified as Sgt. Shedrack Abednego, attached to the Special Tactical Squad (STS/FID) in Abuja, and Sgt. John Ayuba, attached to the CP Crack Squad of the FCT Command, were apprehended following a high-speed chase that ended at a military checkpoint.
The Midnight Operation
The incident began in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, where a red Toyota Corolla (2010 model) was snatched at gunpoint. Armed with intelligence, the Benue State Police Command’s surveillance team spotted the vehicle at Angwan Lambu.
According to police reports, the suspects ignored signals to stop and smashed through a police barrier in a desperate attempt to evade capture. The pursuit continued until the suspects were cornered by a joint team of police and military personnel at a checkpoint near Uke.
Recovery of Tactical Weaponry
A search of the stolen vehicle revealed an arsenal of weaponry and robbery paraphernalia. Items recovered include:
- One AK-47 Rifle
- Three magazines loaded with 16 rounds of live ammunition
- One black face mask
- Three mobile phones and personal belongings
The recovery of the AK-47 is particularly concerning to authorities, as it suggests the suspects may have used service-issued or illegally acquired high-caliber weapons to terrorize the public they were sworn to protect.
Internal Discipline and Investigation
The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has emphasized that the arrest of the duo by their own colleagues demonstrates a commitment to internal discipline. “There is no hiding place for criminals, whether they wear a uniform or not,” a senior official stated, echoing the public sentiment currently trending under #RogueOfficers.
Investigations are now widening to determine if the sergeants are linked to a string of recent carjackings across the North Central zone. The Force is also facing renewed calls from civil society groups for a comprehensive “psychological audit” and stricter monitoring of personnel within tactical units to prevent further criminal infiltration.
