The Benue State Police Command has eliminated 12 armed bandits during an operation in Buruku Local Government Area, but lost an officer in the gunfight.

Police Public Relations Officer, SP Sewuese Anene, stated that the operation was part of a statewide crackdown on criminals. The Commissioner of Police, Steve Yabanet, had earlier directed tactical teams and divisional officers to intensify efforts against criminal gangs regrouping in the state.

During a raid on March 19, operatives of the Operation Zenda Joint Taskforce headed towards a suspected criminal hideout in Agwabi, Tombo Ward. On the way, they were ambushed by bandits, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire.

READ ALSO: Senate demands troops to end Benue violence

The police responded with superior firepower, overpowering the criminals. Twelve bandits were killed, while others fled with gunshot wounds. Their bodies were later taken to a hospital and deposited at the morgue. Security operatives recovered three AK-47 rifles, six rounds of live ammunition, camouflage uniforms, and charms from the scene.

Tragically, one officer, Insp. Terfa Anyiatse sustained a gunshot wound during the battle. He was rushed to the hospital but did not survive. His body has been deposited in the morgue.

CP Yabanet expressed condolences to the fallen officer’s family and commended the operatives for their bravery.

Additional operations in Daudu and Makurdi led to the arrest of five suspected robbers, 32 suspected cultists, and the recovery of seven locally made pistols.

NAN