The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the death of a notorious bandit, Terkaa Samuel, during a gun battle with police operatives in the state.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday in Makurdi.
Edet said the bandit, who hails from Jandekyula in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State, was shot on Wednesday at Channel Two in Zaki-Biam, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
According to her, the police received intelligence that a group of armed bandits was in the area, allegedly planning to kidnap a hotel owner.
She said a patrol team attached to the Ukum Division was immediately deployed to the location.
“Upon sighting the police operatives, the bandits opened fire. The patrol team responded with superior firepower, during which one of the bandits sustained fatal gunshot injuries,” Edet said.
She added that one locally fabricated Beretta pistol, two rounds of live 9mm ammunition and a bag containing charms were recovered from the suspect.
“The injured bandit was rushed to the General Hospital, Zaki-Biam, where he was confirmed dead by the attending medical doctor,” she said.
Edet said the deceased was later identified as Terkaa Samuel, describing him as a notorious bandit from Taraba State.
In a related development, the police spokesperson said operatives of the Jato-Aka Division on the same day responded to a violent clash between two rival cult groups, identified as Red and Black.
She said the clash led to the death of two persons, while others sustained varying degrees of injuries and were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Edet said eight suspects were arrested in connection with the cult clash, while one locally made pistol, an expended cartridge, two axes and two machetes were recovered.
She added that the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, has assured residents of Benue State of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
“The command remains unwavering in its resolve to ensure the safety and security of all residents,” Edet said.
