Operatives of the Benue State Police Command have killed three suspected bandits from Shitele and Ukum following a violent encounter near Tse-Gondo axis. 

According to Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the suspects were allegedly holding secret meetings in Sankera to plan attacks on security operatives before police forces engaged them in a fierce gun duel. 

The operatives recovered two locally fabricated guns and live cartridges from the scene.

Adejobi emphasised that the Nigeria Police Force continues to make significant strides in tackling criminal activities through proactive policing strategies, citing recent operations that led to the neutralisation of notorious bandits and the arrest of suspects involved in kidnapping, cultism, and armed robbery.

“The Benue State Police Command has demonstrated its proactive capabilities in a recent operation targeting banditry. On May 3, 2025, acting on credible intelligence, Police operatives attached to the Benue State Command engaged in a gun battle, a group of bandits suspected to be from Shitele and Ukum, who were holding secret meetings at Sankera, planning attacks against security operatives in the area. During the fierce gun duel near the Tse-Gondo axis, three bandits sustained fatal gunshot injuries and were later confirmed dead at the hospital. The operatives recovered several exhibits from the scene, including two locally fabricated guns and some live cartridges.

“Similarly, operatives of the Delta State Commands CP Special Assignment team arrested one Henry Okpor, a serial car snatcher, on 22nd April, 2025. A pump-action gun, a Toyota Highlander (Reg. No. RBC-414-BL), and a Hyundai car (Reg. No LSD-367-DU), believed to be stolen, were recovered from him. 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.

“Furthermore, in a swift response to a kidnapping incident reported on April 26, 2025, where two persons in Agbarho were kidnapped, operatives of the state command mobilised and trailed the suspects to Uvwiama forest in the Ughelli North LGA, where the operatives successfully rescued the two victims during an intense operation. Nine suspects were also apprehended, and a cache of weapons was recovered, including three pump-action guns, three double/single-barrel guns, one locally made gun, and thirteen rounds of 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 reports of criminal activities.”

All suspects, the police said, would be charged in court upon conclusion of various investigations.

The Inspector-General of Police, (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, the Force Public Relations Officer said has commended the efforts of the gallant operatives and assured members of the public that the Force would leave no stone unturned in ensuring the safety and security of all citizens and residents within the country.