Three suspected bandits were killed, and an AK-47 rifle with 21 rounds of ammunition were recovered after a gun duel with security operatives along Vaase-Chito Road in Ukum Local Government Area, Benue State, BusinessDay has learnt.
- +Police kill three bandits, arrest cult suspect in Benue
The confrontation occurred between June 6 and June 12, 2026, during intelligence-led patrols and collaborative security operations across the State, according to the Benue Police Command.
The confrontation occurred between June 6 and June 12, 2026, during intelligence-led patrols and collaborative security operations across the State, according to the Benue Police Command.
Udeme Edet, a Deputy Superintendent of Police and Police Public Relations Officer, Benue State Police Command, disclosed this in a statement issued in Makurdi. He also said officers of Gbeji Division, working with members of the Community Volunteer Guards, responded to reports of armed bandits operating along the Vaase-Chito Road.
The suspects engaged security personnel in a gunfight, during which three of the bandits were killed.
“One AK-47 rifle, 21 rounds of live ammunition and a motorcycle were recovered from the suspects,” Udeme stated.
She added that other members of the gang escaped with gunshot wounds and were being trailed by operatives.
In a separate operation, operatives of the Violent Crimes Response Unit, VCRU, in Makurdi arrested a suspect found in possession of a locally fabricated revolver pistol and six rounds of live ammunition.
The PPRO said investigations are ongoing to establish the suspect’s criminal connections.
Udeme also said operatives attached to Daudu Division, acting on credible intelligence, raided a criminal hideout at Gyemu Settlement in Guma Local Government Area.
A suspected cultist linked to the notorious Red Skin Cult Group was arrested during the raid.
“Criminal charms were recovered from the suspect, who reportedly confessed to cult-related activities”, the Police spokesperson said.
The Command said the achievements were recorded through intelligence-led policing, proactive patrols and collaborative security operations.
