The Benue State Police Command confirmed on Thursday, January 8, 2026, that a notorious bandit was killed during an operation to prevent a kidnapping in Ukum Local Government Area the previous day.
The Command also arrested eight suspects linked to a violent clash between rival cult groups.
Police said officers received intelligence around 11:43 a.m. on Wednesday, January 7, that armed men had gathered near Channel Two, Zaki‑Biam, planning to abduct a local hotelier.
Officers were dispatched to intercept the suspects, who opened fire, prompting an exchange of gunfire.
One suspect was fatally wounded and later pronounced dead at Zaki‑Biam General Hospital.
He was identified as Terkaa Samuel, a criminal from Jandekyula, Wukari Local Government Area, Taraba State.
Authorities recovered a locally fabricated Beretta pistol, two live 9mm cartridges, and a bag containing suspected charms.
Additional police teams are pursuing remaining members of the bandit group.
Earlier on the same day, officers from the Jato‑Aka Division intervened in a clash between the Red and Black cult factions, which reportedly left two people dead and others injured.
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Eight suspects were arrested, and police seized a locally fabricated pistol, a spent cartridge, two axes, and two machetes.
Injured victims were taken to medical facilities for treatment.
Commissioner of Police Ifeanyi Emenari assured residents that the Command remains committed to protecting lives and property and urged the public to provide credible information to support ongoing operations.