Taskforce arrests three for illegal ‘marching ground’ levy in Makurdi

The Taskforce on Illegal Levies and Criminal Activities in Makurdi has arrested three suspected gang members for extorting money from a borehole drilling operation in the Nyoogyungu area of Makurdi, Benue State.

The suspects, identified as Anyakpa Aondoaver, Sende Stephen, and Akaahan Terna, were reportedly caught on CCTV demanding ₦350,000 as an illegal “Marching Ground” levy from a drilling team.

Acting on a distress call, the task force swiftly intervened and apprehended the suspects, handing them over to the Police Area Command in Makurdi for prosecution.

Parading the suspects, the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Governor Hyacinth Alia on Youth Organization and Illegal Levies, Hon. Gbenda Terver, warned youths against engaging in criminal activities that hinder the state’s development.

He emphasized that the government remains committed to eradicating illegal levies and urged residents to report such activities by calling 07063894788 for immediate response.