Gunmen attack Benue checkpoint, kill two security personnel

Two members of the Operation Zenda Joint Task Force (JTF) in Benue State lost their lives following a late-night attack by unidentified gunmen at a checkpoint along the Otukpo–Ohimini road.

According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency news platform, the attack occurred around 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday. 

The victims were identified as Inspector Akpan Ogbole of the Nigeria Police Force and Abechi Oche from the Nigeria Forest and Hunters Services.

Reports indicate that the officers sustained severe gunshot injuries during an exchange of fire with the assailants. 

They were immediately taken to Otukpo General Hospital for treatment but were later confirmed dead.

Their remains have since been deposited at the hospital mortuary.

Authorities disclosed that the attackers made away with an AK-47 rifle belonging to the police and a pump-action gun assigned to the Forest and Hunters Services.

Security operatives have reportedly launched an investigation and intensified patrols in the area to apprehend the perpetrators.