Police rescue nursing student, eliminate suspected gang leader in Benue

Police in Benue State have rescued a kidnapped female nursing student and killed a suspected gang leader following a shootout in Agbungun community, Logo Local Government Area.

The incident occurred on the evening of November 21, when six armed men on two motorcycles stormed Agbungun and abducted the student, whose name has not been released.

According to reports shared with Zagazola Makama, Divisional Police Officer of Ayilamo, a patrol team and tactical units were quickly mobilized to pursue the attackers toward their hideout in the nearby Biki community.

Officers engaged the gang in a fierce gun battle, during which one suspect, later identified as Avalumun Nyamver, also known as Ornu and described as the group’s leader, was struck and later died in hospital.

In the confusion of the exchange, the kidnapped student managed to escape unharmed and was safely reunited with her family.

Police also arrested a woman, Mngusuun Torkende of Ucha in Ukum Local Government Area, who was found inside the hideout. She reportedly told investigators that she had traveled to the area for a burial and was asked by the deceased suspect to remain in the village.

Items recovered from the scene included a mobile phone, bags, criminal charms, a cutlass, two power banks, and four SIM cards.