From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
The Commissioner of Police, Benue State Police Command, CP Steve Yabanet, has confirmed the death of one of their officers and 12 bandits in Benue State.
In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Catherine Anene, the Commissioner said the officer was killed when bandits ambushed the officers during an operation in Buruku Local Government Area (LGA) of the state.
The statement said, “On 6/3/2025, the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Steve Yabanet, had ordered tactical commanders and Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) to clamp down on criminals in the state during the usual monthly conference, as he had noticed a regrouping of criminal gangs.
“In line with these directives, the Operation Zenda Joint Taskforce embarked on raids across the state. On 19/3/2025 at about 0200hrs, while some of the operatives were on their way to a criminal hideout at Agwabi, Tombo ward, Buruku Local Government Area, they ran into an ambush laid by the bandits, who engaged the police in a fierce gun duel.”
The Commissioner explained that, in response, the police countered the ambush with more superior firepower that subdued the gang.
“At the end of the crossfire, 12 bandits were neutralised while others escaped. The injured bandits were taken to the hospital where they were confirmed dead and deposited at the hospital morgue.”
He disclosed that three AK-47 rifles, six rounds of live ammunition, camouflage uniforms, and assorted charms were recovered from them.
He said, unfortunately, one of the police team members, Inspector Terfa Anyiatse, sustained a gunshot injury and was eventually confirmed dead by a doctor. His corpse has also been deposited at the morgue.
While commiserating with the family and friends of the deceased officer, the Commissioner prayed for the repose of his soul.
He also extolled the courage of the operatives involved in the operation.
Similarly, CP Yabanet said operations carried out around Daudu in Guma LGA and Makurdi by various divisions led to the recovery of seven locally made pistols, the arrest of five suspected robbers, and 32 suspected cultists.
He said the investigation is ongoing.