In a daring confrontation between security forces and armed bandits, a Police Inspector and 12 suspected bandits have lost their lives in a gun battle in the outskirts of Benue State. The clash, which occurred in the early hours of March 19, saw a team of police officers, who were acting on intelligence reports, engaging a notorious group of armed criminals involved in illegal activities across the region.
According to a statement by the Benue State Police Command, the gun battle took place after the bandits opened fire on the police unit while attempting to carry out an operation aimed at dismantling their criminal network. The police responded swiftly, and a fierce exchange of fire ensued. Unfortunately, a Police Inspector, identified as Inspector Samuel Okoye, was killed in the line of duty during the firefight.
The bandits, who had been linked to a series of violent crimes, including kidnappings and robberies in the region, were said to have resisted arrest fiercely. Twelve of the armed criminals were confirmed dead at the scene following the intense exchange of gunfire. Several others sustained injuries and were apprehended by the police for further investigation.
“The loss of one of our own, Inspector Samuel Okoye, is deeply painful,” said the Benue State Commissioner of Police, CP Michael Adedeji. “However, we remain committed to bringing all criminal elements to justice and ensuring the safety of the citizens of Benue State. The successful operation has led to a significant reduction in the activities of the bandit group, and we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that such criminal operations are brought to a halt.”
The operation was part of the ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Police Force, in collaboration with local security agencies, to eliminate banditry and other forms of violent crime in Benue and neighboring states. Authorities have called for increased vigilance and cooperation from the public to combat insecurity in the region.