Police Foil Robbery Attack, Kill Three Suspected Criminals In Benue

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

According to security sources, the incident occurred at about 2:48 a.m. on June 8 after the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Gbeji Division received reports that armed men believed to be bandits were attacking travellers and robbing them of their belongings along the route.

Following the report, the DPO mobilised a patrol team alongside members of the Community Volunteer Guards and moved to the area.

According to the sources, the suspected criminals opened fire immediately after sighting the approaching security operatives, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire.

The combined security team responded with superior firepower, resulting in the death of three suspects. Some of the deceased were reportedly dressed in military camouflage uniforms.

Several other members of the gang reportedly escaped from the scene on motorcycles, while security sources believe some of them may have sustained gunshot injuries during the encounter.

During the operation, security operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle, 21 rounds of live ammunition, and a motorcycle.

The recovered items have been secured by the police as exhibits for further investigation.

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

Police authorities disclosed that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation, while efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing gang members.

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