Police operatives in Benue State have neutralized three suspected bandits as part of ongoing efforts to curb criminal activities in the North-Central region.
The assailants, believed to be from Shitele and Ukum, were reportedly holding clandestine meetings in Sankera, where they were planning assaults on security personnel operating in the area.
This was revealed in a statement on Sunday by Force spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi, who confirmed that the operation took place on May 3.
He said that during a “fierce gun duel near Tse-Gondo axis, three bandits sustained fatal gunshot injuries and were later confirmed dead at the hospital.”
At the scene, officers recovered various items, including two locally manufactured firearms and live cartridges.
In a related development, the Delta State Police Command’s CP Special Assignment team apprehended Henry Okpor, identified as a habitual vehicle thief, on April 22, 2025.
Recovered items included a pump-action shotgun, a Toyota Highlander (Reg. No. RBC-414-BL), and a Hyundai vehicle (Reg. No. LSD-367-DU), both suspected to have been stolen.
“The Command has also shown strides in suppressing cultism. On April 25, 2025, a sting operation by the CP Special Assignment team led to the apprehension of Mudiaga Okparume and Arinze Humble, confirmed members of the Vikings confraternity. The operatives recovered two Beretta pistols and five rounds of live ammunition.”
In another case, following a reported kidnapping on April 26, 2025, involving two individuals in Agbarho, law enforcement officers traced the perpetrators to Uvwiama forest in Ughelli North LGA. During the operation, both victims were successfully rescued, and nine suspects were captured. The team also seized a number of weapons, including three pump-action guns, three double/single-barrel guns, one locally crafted firearm, and thirteen live cartridges.
“These successful operations are a testament to the dedication and proactive measures taken by the Nigeria Police Force to combat violent crimes. The Force remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens through intelligence-led policing, community engagement, and swift response to report of criminal activities.”
Adejobi mentioned that all arrested individuals will be prosecuted once investigations are concluded.
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun praised the efforts of the operatives, reassuring the public that the Force will persist in its mission to safeguard the lives and property of everyone residing in the country.