Operatives of the Benue State Police Command have killed a bandit during a fierce gun battle with armed criminals who attacked farmers in Tse Anyineku community, Zaki-Biam, Ukum Local Government Area of the state.
The incident occurred on Thursday after the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ukum Division received a distress call at about 11:05 am, prompting a swift deployment of patrol teams to the area.
According to sources, the bandits had stormed the community, targeting farmers working in their fields, but were met with stiff resistance from the police.
“On arrival at the scene, the bandits opened fire on the police operatives.
“The patrol teams responded with superior firepower, forcing the criminals to flee into the Shetile forest,” a source said.
During the exchange, one of the bandits was found critically wounded. He was later identified by residents as Terhile Ashiwa, from Ucha Mbatyu in Ukum.
He was immediately taken to the General Hospital in Zaki-Biam, where he was confirmed dead by medical personnel. His remains have since been deposited at the hospital mortuary for autopsy.
Police authorities say patrols and tactical operations have been intensified in the area to ensure the fleeing criminals are apprehended and to prevent further attacks.
