The police in Benue State have confirmed the deaths of 12 bandits and one police officer, Inspector Terfa Anyiatse, in the Buruku Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement issued late on Wednesday, the spokesperson for the state command, Catherine Anene, reported that members of the Operation Zenda Joint Task Force were conducting raids across the state when they encountered the gunmen.
The statement read, “On 19/3/2025 at approximately 0200hrs, while some operatives were en route to a criminal hideout in Agwabi, Tombo ward, Buruku Local Government Area, they stumbled into an ambush set by the bandits, who engaged the police in a fierce gunfight.
“In response, the police countered the ambush with superior firepower, overpowering the gang.
“At the end of the exchange, 12 bandits were neutralised, while others managed to escape. The injured bandits were taken to a hospital, where they were later confirmed dead and subsequently deposited in the morgue.
“Recovered items include three AK-47 rifles, six rounds of live ammunition, camouflage uniforms, and various charms.”
The PPRO added, “Regrettably, one member of the police team, Inspector Terfa Anyiatse, sustained a gunshot wound and was later confirmed dead by a doctor. His remains have also been deposited in the morgue.”
