The Police Command in Benue State has taken decisive action against criminal elements, neutralising two notorious bandits in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area and recovering a cache of arms.

According to a statement released by the State’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Sewuese Anene, the operation was conducted following intelligence reports indicating the presence of bandits at De-Mtsa village in Katsina-Ala.

Anene explained that a team from Operation Zenda Joint Task Force, led by ASP Felix Nomiyugh, swiftly responded to the information and engaged the bandits in a heavy gun battle.

“During the operation on March 27, the bandits were met with superior firepower from the operatives, resulting in the neutralization of two bandits and the arrest of one,” Anene stated.

She further disclosed that the recovered exhibits included firearms, ammunition, camouflage uniforms, and assorted phones.

The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Emmanuel Adesina, commended the officers for their bravery and urged them to continue taking the fight against crime to the doorsteps of criminals.

Adesina also called on residents to support the police by providing useful and timely information to aid in combating crime in the state.

It was reported that the neutralised bandits were members of the notorious gang led by Terwase Akwaza, also known as Ghana, who had previously been eliminated in a similar operation.

The gang, known for terrorizing communities in Abaji, Tor Donga, and neighboring villages, has been a source of unrest in the region for over a decade.

Despite joint security operations and the elimination of key figures within the gang, including Ghana, areas like Katsina-Ala, Logo, and Ukum LGAs continue to grapple with persistent bandit activities.