Benue Police kill 12 bandits, lose one officer in fierce gun battle

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the killing of 12 bandits and the loss of one police officer, Inspector Terfa Anyiatse, during a raid in Buruku Local Government Area.

IDOMA VOICE reports that in a statement released late Wednesday, the command’s spokesperson, Catherine Anene, disclosed that officers from the Operation Zenda Joint Task Force were conducting raids across the state when they encountered the armed gang.

“On March 19, 2025, at about 2:00 AM, operatives heading to a criminal hideout in Agwabi, Tombo Ward, Buruku LGA, were ambushed by bandits who engaged them in a fierce gun battle,” the statement read.

The police responded with superior firepower, overpowering the attackers. By the end of the exchange, 12 bandits had been neutralized, while others managed to escape. The injured bandits were taken to a hospital, where they were confirmed dead and their bodies deposited in the morgue.

Recovered items included three AK-47 rifles, six rounds of live ammunition, camouflage uniforms, and various charms.

The police spokesperson added, “Unfortunately, one officer, Inspector Terfa Anyiatse, sustained a gunshot wound and was later confirmed dead by a doctor. His remains have been deposited at the morgue.”