Two members of a gang terrorizing the Sankera area of Benue North East District were killed in a shootout with the police at Tse Uza, Mbatyula Council Ward, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area.

The gang members were killed when police operatives invaded their camp after receiving credible intelligence about their hideout.

The Public Relations Officer of the Command, Superintendent Catherine Anene, said in a statement on Monday, “Benue State Police Command has continuously intensified efforts to clamp down on bandits in the Sankera axis of the state in the last three months. Several operations carried out led to the arrest of suspects that have been charged to court while others were neutralized in the course of exchange of fire. Arms and ammunition have been recovered and many camps dislodged.”

Superintendent Anene explained that Operation Zenda JTF invaded the criminal hideout on June 30, 2024. “Upon arrival at the camp, bandits engaged the police in a gun duel to resist invasion into their camp but were overpowered by the superior firepower of the police team,” she said.

“Two of the bandits received gunshot injuries, they have been confirmed dead by a doctor and their corpses deposited at the General Hospital Ukum, while other suspects escaped.”

Items recovered from the camp include two pistols loaded with ammunition, three locally made short guns, 13 motorcycles, camouflage uniforms, six walkie-talkies, one Toyota Corolla, and one tricycle.

The Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, Hassan Yabanet, commended the bravery of the officers and urged the people of Sankera to provide useful information about the suspects who escaped. “He also reiterated his commitment to fighting crimes in the state,” the statement added.