The Benue State Police Command has confirmed that four suspected bandits were killed during a security operation in Orokam, Ogbadibo Local Government Area.
The command’s spokesperson, Udeme Edet, disclosed the incident in a statement released on Friday, the 30th of January, 2026.
Edet explained that operatives of the Operation Zenda Joint Task Force neutralised the suspects on Thursday, the 29th of January, 2026, while repelling an armed assault during a routine stop-and-search operation.
According to the statement, the officers were stationed at a police checkpoint in Orokam when they intercepted a black Golf 3 vehicle.
She said, “On 29 January 2026 at about 1700 hours, operatives of Operation Zenda JTF were on lawful stop-and-search duty at a police checkpoint in Orakam when they intercepted a black Golf 3 vehicle.”
Edet further detailed that, during the search, the vehicle’s occupants violently resisted the officers.
“In a desperate attempt to evade arrest, two of the suspects produced AK-47 rifles and opened fire on the police personnel. The operatives, displaying remarkable courage, tactical competence and professionalism, responded decisively, leading to a gun duel.
“As a result of the engagement, four armed bandits were neutralised, while one armed suspect fled into a nearby bush,” the statement read.
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Recovered items at the scene included an AK-47 rifle, a magazine containing 15 rounds of live ammunition, the vehicle used by the suspects, and items believed to be criminal charms.
The spokesperson added that efforts were ongoing to track down the fleeing suspect while investigations continued.
Edet noted that the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, commended the officers for their bravery and professionalism, reassuring residents of the command’s dedication to tackling armed criminality across the state.
Emenari also urged the public to remain law-abiding and continue to support security agencies with credible information.