Man Arraigned Over Illegal Possession Of Firearms

The Benue Police Command on Tuesday arraigned a 32-year-old man, Raphael Tyokua, over alleged criminal conspiracy, illegal possession of firearms, housebreaking and theft.

Tyokua was arraigned before a Makurdi Upper Area Court 2.

According to the prosecutor, Mrs. Omaye Ujeta, one Kputu Orya, who resides behind ‘E’ Division Police Station, Makurdi, reported the matter at `E’ Division Station, Makurdi.

Ujeta quoted Orya as saying that Tyokua, a resident of Anta village, Makurdi conspired with two others, still at large, broke into his office at Aggo School, along Abu King Shuluwa Road, Akpehe in Benue, and robbed him.

She further quoted Orya as saying that the accused and his accomplices entered into the office through the ceiling, and stole two hp laptops with their chargers, valued at N110,000, and N45,000 cash.

She said that Tyokua was later arrested with a locally- made pistol, one round of live ammunition and a knife.

According to her, the accused has voluntarily confessed to the crime that contravenes sections 3 (1) of the Robbery and Firearms (Special Provisions) Act 2004, and Sections 97, 355 and 289 of the penal code laws of Benue State.

Ujeta said that investigation into the matter was ongoing, and requested an adjournment to enable her complete it.

When the case came for mention, no plea was taken for want of jurisdiction.

The Magistrate, Fatima Akintomide, ordered that the accused be remanded at Makurdi Prison, and adjourned the case to July 28.