Gunmen Ambush Security Checkpoint in Benue, Kill Police Inspector, Hunter — Cart Away Rifles

Suspected gunmen have killed two members of the Operation Zenda Joint Task Force in a late-night attack on a security checkpoint along the Otukpo–Ohimini road in Benue State.

The attack, which occurred around 11:59 p.m. on October 22, left a police inspector and a member of the Nigeria Forest and Hunters Services dead.

Security analyst Zagazola Makama, who confirmed the incident on his X handle, identified the victims as Inspector Akpan Ogbole of the Nigeria Police Force and Abechi Oche, a hunter with the Forest and Hunters Services.

According to reports, the security personnel came under heavy fire during a fierce gun duel with the attackers. Both men sustained serious injuries and were rushed to the Otukpo General Hospital, where they later died while receiving treatment.

Makama disclosed that the assailants escaped with an AK-47 rifle belonging to the police and a pump-action gun belonging to the Hunters Services.

In the aftermath of the attack, tactical teams led by the Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (Operations) have been deployed to the Otukpo Area Command to coordinate intensive anti-crime operations aimed at arresting the perpetrators and dismantling criminal gangs operating in the area.

A police source who spoke under anonymity said, “The command has intensified surveillance and patrols around Otukpo and adjoining communities. The killers will be fished out.”

The State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) has also commenced a full-scale investigation into the incident.

The remains of the slain officers have been deposited at the Otukpo General Hospital mortuary, while security operatives continue to patrol flashpoints across the area to forestall further attacks.