Security forces in Benue State have recorded a significant victory with the elimination of a notorious bandit during a fierce gun battle. The state police command confirmed the incident, which also involved the arrest of several suspects in a separate violent cult clash on the same day.
Bandit Neutralized in Ukum Shootout
The Benue State Police Command, through its spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, announced the development in a statement issued on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from Makurdi. According to the statement, police operatives engaged and fatally wounded a known bandit on Wednesday around Channel Two, Zaki-Biam, in Ukum Local Government Area.
The operation was launched based on credible intelligence reports. Police received information that a group of bandits were gathering in the Channel Two area, planning to kidnap a local hotelier. In response, a patrol team from the Ukum Division was swiftly deployed to the location to foil the planned crime.
"Upon sighting the police operatives, the bandits opened fire. The patrol team responded with superior firepower, during which one of the bandits sustained fatal gunshot injuries," DSP Edet stated.
Recovered Items and Identity of Deceased
Following the exchange of gunfire, the injured bandit was rushed to the General Hospital in Zaki-Biam, where a medical doctor confirmed his death. The police conducted a search and recovered several items from him.
The recovered items include:
- One locally fabricated Beretta pistol.
- Two rounds of live 9mm ammunition.
- A bag containing charms.
The deceased was later identified as Terkaa Samuel, a notorious bandit from Jandekyula, Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State.
Separate Cult Clash Leads to Arrests
In a related incident on the same date, police operatives attached to the Jato-Aka Division responded to a violent clash between rival cult groups. The groups, identified as 'Red' and 'Black', engaged in a deadly confrontation.
The clash resulted in the death of two persons. Several other victims sustained varying degrees of injury and were taken to nearby medical facilities for treatment. The police intervention led to the arrest of eight suspects connected to the violence.
Items recovered from the cult suspects include:
- One locally fabricated pistol.
- An expended cartridge.
- Two axes.
- Two machetes.
Police Reassure Public on Security
Commenting on the operations, the Commissioner of Police for Benue State, Ifeanyi Emenari, reassured residents of the command's dedication. He emphasized the police's unwavering commitment to continue to safeguard the lives and property of all citizens in the state.
These simultaneous operations highlight the ongoing security challenges in parts of Benue and the police's continued efforts to combat crime and maintain order.
