The Benue State Police Command has confirmed that four suspected bandits were killed during a security operation in Orokam, Ogbadibo LGA of the state.
Udeme Edet, police spokesperson in Benue, disclosed this in a statement released on Friday.
Edet said the suspects were neutralised on Thursday by operatives of the Operation Zenda Joint Task Force while responding to an armed confrontation during a routine stop-and-search exercise.
She explained that the operation took place at a police checkpoint in Orokam when officers stopped a black Golf 3 vehicle for inspection.
According to Edet, “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.”
She said the situation escalated when the occupants of the vehicle resisted the officers during the search.
“In a desperate attempt to evade arrest, two of the suspects produced AK-47 rifles and opened fire on the police personnel,” Edet stated.
“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.”
Edet disclosed that an AK-47 rifle, a magazine loaded with 15 rounds of live ammunition, the suspects’ vehicle and items believed to be criminal charms were recovered from the scene.
She said police operatives have launched a manhunt for the suspect who escaped, while investigations into the incident remain ongoing.
Edet added that Ifeanyi Emenari, commissioner of police in Benue, praised the officers for their professionalism and courage during the operation.
She said the commissioner reassured residents of the command’s resolve to confront armed criminality across the state.
Emenari also appealed to members of the public to remain law-abiding and continue to support security agencies with credible information.
The incident comes months after a joint security team from Benue and Enugu states arrested a suspected kidnap gang leader in Orokam in August 2025.
