The Benue State Police Command says it has neutralised three suspected armed bandits and recovered firearms and ammunition in separate operations across the state.
Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Edet Udeme, said the incidents occurred between June 6 and June 12 through intelligence-led policing and coordinated security operations.
She said operatives of Gbeji Division, working with Community Volunteer Guards, engaged armed suspects along the Vaase–Chito Road in Ukum Local Government Area, killing three during a gun duel.
One AK-47 rifle, 21 rounds of live ammunition and a motorcycle were recovered, while other gang members escaped with injuries, according to the police.
In a separate operation, the Violent Crimes Response Unit in Makurdi arrested a suspect allegedly found with a locally fabricated revolver pistol and six rounds of ammunition. Investigations are ongoing.
Police also said operatives in Daudu Division raided a hideout in Guma Local Government Area and arrested a suspected cultist linked to the Red Skin cult group, recovering charms and other items.
In Gboko Local Government Area, Operation Zenda Joint Task Force arrested a suspected leader of an armed robbery and kidnapping syndicate. A locally made firearm, ammunition and charms were recovered.
The suspect was later taken to hospital after sustaining injuries during an attempted mob attack, the police said.
In Okpokwu Local Government Area, officers foiled an attempted robbery at an NYSC lodge in Ugwu Okpoga, arresting one suspect while others escaped.
The command said additional recoveries during the period included two locally fabricated firearms, an AK-47 rifle, 32 rounds of ammunition, a motorcycle and charms.
Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, commended officers for their professionalism and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to sustained operations against criminal groups in the state.
He urged residents to continue providing credible intelligence to security agencies to support ongoing security efforts.
