Police Foil Bandits’ Attack in Benue, Restore Calm in Otukpo

The Benue State Police Command has successfully repelled an attack by suspected bandits on police personnel in Otukpo Local Government Area, restoring calm to the affected communities.

Sources said the incident occurred on January 27 at about 2:26 p.m. following intelligence received from the military that armed bandits earlier dislodged from Umogidi community were fleeing toward Odugbo area of Otukpo LGA.

According to the source, the Commanding Officer of the 80 Police Mobile Force (PMF), Odugbo, immediately deployed PMF operatives who were already on alert to intercept the fleeing suspects.

“On sighting the police personnel, the bandits opened fire, leading to a gun duel,” the source said.

The police were said to have overpowered the attackers, forcing them to retreat into the surrounding bush due to the superior firepower of the security operatives.

“No casualty was recorded on the side of the police or members of the community,” the source added, noting that normalcy has since returned to the area.

The Benue State Police Command assured residents that patrols have been intensified in and around the affected communities to prevent further attacks and maintain security.