Security forces in Benue State have neutralized 12 armed bandits in Buruku Local Government Area following a heated gun battle, the state police command confirmed on Thursday.
Spokesperson SP Sewuese Anene revealed that the deadly clash occurred during a police raid at a notorious criminal hideout in Agwabi, Tombo Ward. Unfortunately, the operation also claimed the life of a brave officer, Inspector Terfa Anyiatse, who succumbed to gunshot injuries.
The mission was part of a statewide crackdown on rising criminal activity, ordered by Commissioner of Police Steve Yabanet on March 6. Acting on intelligence, the elite Operation Zenda Joint Taskforce launched targeted raids to dismantle regrouping gangs.
“During the operation on March 19, our officers encountered an ambush but responded with superior firepower, neutralizing 12 bandits while others fled with gunshot wounds,” Anene stated.
Recovered from the scene were three AK-47 rifles, live ammunition, camouflage uniforms, and assorted charms. The bodies of the neutralized bandits have been deposited in a mortuary.
In a separate series of security operations across Daudu and Makurdi, police also arrested 37 suspects, including five alleged robbers and 32 suspected cultists. Seven locally made pistols were also seized.
The Commissioner of Police commended the operatives for their bravery and extended condolences to the fallen officer’s family. The security crackdown is expected to continue in a bid to restore peace in the region.
