The Benue State Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) task force on illegal checkpoints has apprehended nine notorious suspects operating in the North Bank area of Makurdi, the capital city of Benue State.
The task force team, led by BIRS Chairman, Mr. Emmanuel Agema, was inaugurated by Governor Hyacinth Aliai back in September. Their primary objective is to eradicate illegal checkpoints and eliminate multiple extortion of motorists, thereby ensuring a safer and more efficient road network in the state.
The team successfully dismantled the illegal checkpoint at the North Bank area and promptly handed over the arrested suspects to the police for further legal action.
During an interview with journalists, Chairman of the Task Force Team, CSP George Iorbee (rtd), highlighted the team’s collaborative efforts with the police and Civil Defence Corps. He emphasized the importance of eliminating these illegal checkpoints and bringing about a positive change in the state.
Notably, the task force faced resistance after their initial arrests of three hoodlums. Upon their return, they discovered that the illegal checkpoints had reappeared. Consequently, the team retreated and sought assistance from the army officers, leading to the additional arrest of six more hoodlums.
The operation has garnered positive feedback from commuters along the route, who have expressed satisfaction and appreciation to the state government for their swift action. They have called for the operation to be carried out regularly to permanently eradicate illegal checkpoint operators.
