Four bandits have been neutralised as operatives of Operation Zenda, a Joint Task Force (JTF) in Benue State, successfully repelled an armed attack during a routine security operation.
DSP Udeme Edet, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Benue State Police Command, in a statement issued on Thursday, January 29, said operatives of Operation Zenda were on lawful stop-and-search duty at a police checkpoint in Orakam when they intercepted a black Golf 3 vehicle. In the course of the search, occupants of the car violently resisted the operatives.
“In a desperate attempt to evade arrest, two of the suspects produced AK-47 rifles and opened fire on the police personnel. The operatives, displaying remarkable courage, tactical competence, and professionalism, responded decisively, leading to a gun duel,” DSP Edet said in the statement.
According to the PPRO, four armed bandits were neutralised, while one armed suspect fled into a nearby bush.
One (1) AK-47 rifle, a magazine containing fifteen (15) rounds of live ammunition, one (1) black Golf 3 vehicle, and items suspected to be assorted criminal charms were recovered.
Efforts are currently ongoing to track and arrest the fleeing armed suspect, while investigations continue, DSP Udeme assured.
While urging members of the public to remain law-abiding and to continue supporting the Police with timely and credible information that will aid ongoing security operations, the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Ifeanyi Enemari, commends the bravery and operational effectiveness of the Operation Zenda operatives.
