BLOODBATH IN BENUE: Over 10 Security Operatives Killed, Senior Officer Captured Alive As Militias Ambush Troops

PRES:
Benue State was thrown into mourning on Friday, September 19, after a joint military clearance operation in Katsina-Ala Local Government ended in bloodshed. More than ten security personnel were reportedly killed, while several others remain missing following a brutal ambush by armed militias.

The deadly attack occurred around the Agu Center axis of Mbatula–Mberev Ward, close to the Taraba border, an area notorious for violent clashes. According to Council Chairman, Shaku Justine, the operatives came under coordinated fire from a deadly coalition of local militias, Fulani marauders, and suspected hired mercenaries from Taraba State.

In the chaos, a senior officer identified as Danzuru was captured alive, raising fears over his fate. Eyewitnesses confirmed that two Hilux vans belonging to the troops were torched, while several motorcycles were looted by the attackers. At least three of the hired fighters were also neutralized by the security forces before the situation spiraled.

Militia kingpins from the Shitile clan — including notorious warlords such as Konyo, Anyogo, Officer Mathew Zegebra, Gulenen Ashaver, and Fullfire — are believed to have masterminded the bloody assault.

So far, only two bodies of fallen operatives have been recovered, as frantic search-and-rescue missions continue deep in the surrounding forests. The atmosphere in Katsina-Ala remains tense, with residents gripped by fear of possible reprisals.

Benue State Commissioner of Police, Emenari Ifeanyi, who rushed to the scene alongside Council Chairman Shaku Justine, confirmed that reinforcements have been deployed and recovery operations are underway.

“This is a very sad day for Benue State and Nigeria at large. We will not relent until every missing officer is accounted for and those behind this massacre are brought to justice,” he assured.