Police neutralize three suspected bandits and recover firearms in Benue.

The Police Command in Benue announced that it has neutralised three suspected armed bandits and seized firearms and ammunition throughout the state.

Police Public Relations Officer DSP Edet Udeme made the statement on Sunday in Makurdi.

Udeme said the operations took place between 6 and 12 June, relying on intelligence‑led policing, proactive patrols and joint security efforts.

She explained that officers from Gbeji Division, together with Community Volunteer Guards, responded to reports of armed bandits operating along the Vaase‑Chito Road in Ukum Local Government Area.

During a gun duel, the suspects engaged security personnel and three were neutralised.

One AK‑47 rifle, 21 rounds of live ammunition and a motorcycle were recovered from the suspects.

Other gang members escaped with gunshot wounds and are being pursued by security forces.

Udeme added that officers from the Violent Crimes Response Unit in Makurdi arrested a suspect who possessed a locally manufactured revolver pistol and six rounds of live ammunition.

Investigations are continuing to determine the suspect’s criminal connections.

The spokesperson also reported that operatives from Daudu Division, acting on credible intelligence, raided a hideout at Gyemu Settlement in Guma Local Government Area and arrested a suspected cultist linked to the notorious Red Skin Cult Group.

Criminal charms were recovered from the suspect, who reportedly confessed to cult‑related activities.

Udeme further revealed that the Operation Zenda Joint Task Force arrested a suspected leader of an armed robbery and kidnapping syndicate in Gboko Local Government Area.

The suspect was found with a locally manufactured firearm, five rounds of live ammunition and criminal charms. He was taken to the hospital for treatment after sustaining injuries during an attempted mob attack.

In another operation, officers from Okpokwu Division foiled a robbery attempt at an NYSC Corps Members’ Lodge in Ugwu Okpoga, Okpokwu Local Government Area.

One suspect was arrested while other gang members fled the scene, preventing the robbery and safeguarding residents.

During the period reviewed, the command recovered two locally manufactured firearms, one AK‑47 rifle, 32 rounds of live ammunition, one motorcycle and various criminal charms.

Udeme quoted Commissioner of Police CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, who praised the officers involved for their professionalism, courage and dedication to duty.

Nwadiogbu reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property and urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.

He assured that the command remains resolute in maintaining law and order and ensuring a secure environment for all residents of the state.

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