Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Troops operating under the Operation Zenda Joint Task Force in Benue State have successfully repelled an armed attack on their personnel at a security checkpoint in Ogbadibo Local Government Area, killing four suspected armed bandits and recovering weapons, ammunition, and other incriminating items.
The incident occurred at about 5:00 p.m. on January 29 at the Otukpa/Orakam checkpoint, where operatives were conducting routine stop-and-search operations aimed at curbing criminal activities along the busy corridor. According to security sources, a black Golf 3 vehicle was flagged down for a standard search, but the occupants reacted violently.
“The occupants resisted the search, pulled out firearms and engaged the operatives in a shootout,” a source familiar with the operation said. The confrontation quickly escalated into an exchange of gunfire between the suspects and the security personnel stationed at the checkpoint.
During the firefight, four of the suspected bandits sustained severe gunshot injuries. They were evacuated to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention but were later confirmed dead while receiving treatment. One other suspect reportedly escaped from the scene despite sustaining gunshot wounds, prompting an immediate manhunt by security forces.
A search of the vehicle and surrounding area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle with breech number 1960, 15 rounds of live ammunition, and assorted criminal charms believed to be linked to the suspects’ activities. The black Golf 3 vehicle involved in the incident, bearing registration number KEF 909 ES, was also recovered and taken into custody as part of ongoing investigations.
Security sources said efforts were underway to track and arrest the fleeing suspect, while intelligence-led operations had been intensified across Ogbadibo and adjoining local government areas to dismantle any remaining criminal networks connected to the group.
The incident highlights the persistent security challenges facing parts of Benue State, where armed banditry, kidnapping, and violent crime have posed serious threats to both civilians and security personnel. Checkpoints along key routes have remained critical in intercepting criminal movements, arms trafficking, and illicit activities, particularly in areas prone to cross-border and inter-state crimes.
Local residents in Otukpa and Orakam communities expressed relief at the successful repulsion of the attack, noting that the checkpoint has played a key role in deterring criminal activities along the axis. Community leaders, however, urged security agencies to sustain patrols and intelligence gathering to prevent reprisals or renewed attempts by armed groups to operate in the area.
The Operation Zenda Joint Task Force has reiterated its commitment to maintaining pressure on criminal elements across Benue State, stressing that security personnel will continue to carry out their duties with vigilance and professionalism. Officials emphasised that attacks on security forces would be met with decisive response, while assuring the public of continued efforts to protect lives and property.
As investigations continue, authorities have called on members of the public to provide credible information that could assist in apprehending the escaped suspect and dismantling any wider criminal network linked to the attack.
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