Nigeria: Bandits kill police officer, four others in Benue attack
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria
A police officer and four civilians were killed by armed bandits in Abande, Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State. The attack occurred on February 3, 2026, prompting a swift response from security agencies.
According to DSP Edet Udeme, spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, the Divisional Police Officer received information about the attack and mobilized a team to the scene. During the confrontation, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) attached to 13 Police Mobile Force (PMF), Makurdi, was fatally injured, along with four community members.
The police command has mobilized combined teams of police operatives and other security agencies to secure the community, conduct a thorough search, and prevent further breakdown of law and order. The deceased have been recovered and deposited at the mortuary.
Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ifeanyi Emenari, has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations to proceed to Jato-Aka with additional mobile force personnel and Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) to coordinate intensive operations and track the perpetrators.
The Benue State Police Command has assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore peace to the area. The command commiserates with the families of the deceased and the Abande Community.
