Police Foil Armed Robbery Operation, Neutralise Three Suspects in Benue

By: Zagazola Makama 

Operatives of the Benue State Police Command have foiled an armed robbery operation and neutralised three suspected armed robbers during a gun battle along the Vaase–Chito Road in Ukum Local Government Area of the state.

Police sources disclosed that the incident occurred at about 2:48 a.m. on June 8 following information received by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Gbeji Division that armed men suspected to be bandits were attacking motorists and dispossessing them of their valuables along the road.

Acting on the intelligence, the DPO led a patrol team, supported by members of the Community Volunteer Guards, to the scene.

According to the sources, the suspects opened fire on the approaching security team upon sighting them, leading to an exchange of gunfire.

The police team responded swiftly, resulting in the neutralisation of three of the suspects, some of whom were reportedly dressed in military camouflage uniforms.

Other members of the gang escaped from the scene with suspected gunshot wounds aboard motorcycles.

Items recovered from the suspects include one AK-47 rifle, 21 rounds of live ammunition and a motorcycle.

The recovered exhibits have been taken into police custody as evidence.

The bodies of the deceased suspects were evacuated to the Gbeji Hospital Mortuary for post-mortem examination.

Police authorities said investigation into the incident has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID), while efforts are ongoing to track and arrest the fleeing suspects.

The operation is part of sustained efforts by security agencies to combat armed robbery, banditry and other violent crimes across Benue State.