The Benue State Government has dismantled more than 20 illegal roadblocks and unauthorised checkpoints along the Vandeikya–Konshisha Road, warning individuals involved in extorting motorists and commuters to desist or face sanctions.
The operation was led by the Special Adviser to Governor Hyacinth Alia on Security and Internal Affairs, Chief Dr. Joseph Har, during an inspection tour of Konshisha Local Government Area.
Har said only two of the over 20 checkpoints found on the route were legitimate, operated by the Nigeria Police Force and the Benue State Community Volunteer Guards (BSCVG).
He condemned the proliferation of illegal checkpoints allegedly mounted by members of the Benue Motorcycle Association, individuals posing as Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO), and untrained personnel claiming to be members of the Benue State Community Volunteer Guards.
According to him, the illegal roadblocks have become a major source of extortion, forcing motorists, traders and other road users to part with money while also causing unnecessary delays.
Har described the practice as unacceptable and urged residents to report any illegal checkpoint or extortion to the appropriate security authorities.
Motorists, commuters and residents welcomed the government’s intervention, calling for sustained patrols and monitoring. They noted that unemployed youths often return to re-establish the illegal checkpoints after previous enforcement operations.
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