In a swift operation, the Benue State Taskforce on Illegal Levies and Criminality has apprehended a notorious “Marching Ground” gangster, identified as David Yaikyo, in Makurdi.
Yaikyo, a resident of Ajaba settlement opposite the Makurdi International Market, was arrested after he allegedly demanded the sum of ₦300,000 from a building site as “Marching Ground fee.” The arrest followed a prompt response by the taskforce team to a distress call from the affected site.
According to reports, during interrogation, Yaikyo reportedly confessed to the crime. He has since been handed over to the Police Area Command in Makurdi for further detention and prosecution.
Reacting to the arrest, Hon. Gbenda Terver, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Hyacinth Alia on Youth Organization and Illegal Levies, strongly condemned the act. He warned Benue youths involved in such criminal practices to desist immediately or face the full wrath of the law.
Hon. Terver further urged residents to support the Taskforce by reporting suspicious activities through its hotline: 07063894788. He noted that the arrest demonstrates the Benue State Government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating “Marching Ground” extortion and creating a safe environment for development across the state.
This latest breakthrough is seen as part of ongoing efforts by the state government to tackle illegal levies and criminality, reassuring citizens and investors of a more secure operating environment in Benue.
