The Benue State Police Command has announced the death of a notorious bandit, Terkaa Samuel, following a fierce gun battle with operatives in the Ukum Local Government Area. The incident occurred on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.
Intelligence-Led Operation Ends Bandit's Reign
According to the Command's spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, police acted on credible intelligence reports. The information revealed that a group of armed bandits was gathering around Channel Two in Zaki-Biam, planning to kidnap a local hotelier. A patrol team from the Ukum Division was swiftly deployed to intercept the criminals.
"Upon sighting the police operatives, the bandits opened fire," DSP Edet stated. "The patrol team responded with superior firepower, during which one of the bandits sustained fatal gunshot injuries."
Recovery and Identification of the Deceased
The injured bandit was rushed to the General Hospital in Zaki-Biam, where he was confirmed dead by the attending doctor. He was later identified as Terkaa Samuel from Jandekyula, Wukari LGA of Taraba State.
Items recovered from him include:
- One locally fabricated Beretta pistol.
- Two rounds of live 9mm ammunition.
- A bag containing assorted charms.
Separate Cult Clash Leads to More Arrests
In a related development on the same day, police from the Jato-Aka Division responded to a violent clash between rival cult groups known as Red and Black. The confrontation resulted in the death of two individuals, with several others injured and taken to nearby hospitals.
During this operation, police arrested eight suspects and recovered the following items:
- One locally fabricated pistol.
- An expended cartridge.
- Two axes and two machetes.
The Commissioner of Police for Benue State, Mr. Ifeanyi Emenari, has reassured residents of the Command's unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state. He praised the operatives for their swift and decisive actions in both incidents.
