How Gunmen Killed Officers, Set Patrol Vehicles Ablaze in Brutal Benue Ambush

At least 11 security operatives are feared dead following a deadly ambush by armed men in the Agu Center area of Mbatula/Mberev Council Ward, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State. The attack, which happened late Friday night, left patrol vans burnt and several officers missing.

Council Chairman of Katsina-Ala, Dr. Shaku Justine, confirmed the development on Sunday, saying three bodies had so far been recovered from the scene while search operations were ongoing. He explained that two bodies were first found late Friday night, and another was recovered on Saturday, with efforts still underway to locate the missing operatives.

Justine said that while 11 officers remained unaccounted for, some residents claimed as many as 16 personnel were trapped during the attack. He added that one officer, identified as Danzuru, was allegedly captured alive by the assailants.

“Yes, some security operatives were attacked on Friday while they were on joint patrol. Two bodies were recovered past 11pm Friday night. We don’t know if all 11 personnel were killed, but a rescue team has been deployed to the area. The two patrol vehicles they used were burnt down. Eyewitnesses said the attackers were more than 1,000 and came in large numbers. As of now, the rescue team is still combing the bush,” the chairman said.

The Police Public Relations Officer in Benue, DSP Udeme Edet, said she would issue an official statement in response to the incident.