Bandits Kill Two Police Inspectors, Four Civilians in Benue Village Attack
In a violent assault on Monday afternoon, armed bandits killed two police inspectors and four civilians during an attack on Tse-Kaseve village in Anyagba Ward, located within the Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. The incident, which occurred at approximately 4:00 p.m., involved a large group of bandits arriving on about 100 motorcycles, according to sources cited by security analyst Zagazola Makama.
Security Forces Confront Bandits in Market Area
The attackers attempted to overrun the village market and massacre residents, but were met with resistance from a combined team of security personnel. Eleven Police Mobile Force (PMF) personnel on special duty in the town, working alongside members of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, confronted and repelled the invaders. Despite their efforts, the bandits managed to ambush two officers during the operation.
The fallen officers have been identified as Inspector Adams Saidu and Inspector Edem Endimon, both from the 11 PMF unit based in Calabar. The assailants shot them dead and stole their service rifles. In addition to the police casualties, four civilians lost their lives in the attack, while one other person sustained injuries and was urgently transported to Katsina-Ala Hospital for medical treatment.
Deployment of Additional Security Forces
Following the deadly incident, a coordinated response has been initiated. Troops from the Nigerian Army, along with additional tactical teams, other security agencies, and local vigilante groups, are being deployed to the area. The sources indicated that bush combing operations are currently underway to track the suspects and effect arrests, aiming to restore order and prevent further violence.
This attack highlights the ongoing security challenges in the region, where banditry continues to pose a significant threat to both civilians and law enforcement personnel. The community remains on high alert as authorities work to enhance security measures and bring the perpetrators to justice.
