Police kill bandits, recover firearms in Benue

Operatives of the Benue State Police Command have killed suspected bandits and recovered firearms in Mbafyan, Mbachir Council Ward, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, and Tse Shenge, Ukum Local Government Area.

The police disclosed this in a statement on Monday night, which was signed by the command’s spokesperson, SP Catherine Anene.

According to Anene, security agents have sustained operations in Sankara to clamp down on bandits, particularly in communities where attacks are threatened.

“In the last one week, the operation Zenda JTF teams have engaged bandits in gun duels at Mbafyan, Mbachir Council Ward, Kastina-Ala Local Government Area and Tse Shenge, Ukum Local Government Area.

“During these operations, three suspected bandits were neutralised, while others sustained injuries and escaped into nearby communities.

“Items recovered from them include one Toyota Corolla, one Hummer Bus, one tricycle, 12 motorcycles and three shotguns.

“The Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, Hassan Steve Yabanet, who was in Kastina-Ala on July 20, 2024, commended officers who have been on the frontlines fighting against bandits and encouraged them to remain steadfast and cooperate with the good people of Sankera for useful information.

“The CP assures the good people of Sankera of his commitment to fighting banditry in the area. He advised them to be vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agents in their communities, as bandits running from security agents may be violent against vulnerable people.”