Angry mob kill two suspected motorcycle thieves in Benue

Saturday, November 22, 2025 - A mob k!lled two suspected members of a robbery syndicate specialising in motorcycle theft in Makurdi, Benue State.

The duo was k!lled in the early hours of Friday, November 21, 2025 after angry youths discovered their hideout along George Akume Way. 

It was gathered that one of the suspects had stolen a motorcycle fitted with a tracker. 

The tracking device led to the location of the gang’s hideout, where several stolen motorcycles and grinding machines were reportedly discovered.

Policemen were invited to the scene, but before the officers could take full control, the suspects attempted to escape. 

They were intercepted and lynched by a mob, largely made up of commercial motorcyclists. The hideout was subsequently set ablaze. 

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of E Division, Makurdi, who visited the scene confirmed that the matter has already been reported to the Commissioner of Police. 

A commercial motorcyclist, Terwase, who spoke to journalists expressed concern over the rising rate of motorcycle theft, noting that some victims had even lost their lives. 

Terwase, condemned the mob action, stressing that suspects should be prosecuted rather than subjected to jungle justice. 

Another commercial motorcyclist, Tersoo Atser, said that motorcycles are sometimes snatched at gunpoint in broad daylight, despite previous restrictions on night-time operations. 

According to riders, the syndicate employed various methods, including snatching motorcycles, using chemicals to incapacitate owners, and stealing parked bikes from homes, markets, and streets.

“With the hardship we are facing in this country, if your source of livelihood is cut off, you no longer think straight. Government must act swiftly to stop the rising rate of theft in the state and ensure those involved face the law,” a rider said. 

Meanwhile, the Executive Chairman of Makurdi Local Government, Hon. Joseph Keffi, visited the area where two bike snatchers were dislodged and killed by the motorcyclist Association.

Terhide Mark, “a motorcyclist whose motorcycle was snatched last night being November 20th, 2025, tracked his motorcycle to a house located at “Tarzaan Iyortyer street” George-Akume way, the victim immediately called on his fellow motorcyclist, during the process two suspects were found in the house and jungle justice was taken upon them by the motorcyclists Association," 

Hon. Beeteh stated that in the citation of investigation by the police E-division, over 15 motorcycles and parts were discovered in the house.

During his visit, Hon. Hon. Keffi addressed neighboring communities. He stressed the urgent need for unity and collective action in confronting criminals within the Local Government.

He reiterated his unwavering commitment to supporting security agency, stating that his administration will continue to provide all necessary assistance to combat the insecurity plaguing within Makurdi Local Government.