Benue police kill notorious bandit, foil kidnap plot in Zaki-Biam

By James Ike

The Benue State Police Command has successfully thwarted a suspected kidnap attempt in Zaki-Biam, Ukum Local Government Area, killing a notorious bandit in the process.

The incident occurred on Wednesday at about 11:43 a.m. after the police received credible intelligence that armed bandits were planning to abduct a hotelier in the Channel Two area of Zaki-Biam. A patrol team from the Ukum Division was immediately dispatched to the scene.

According to Police Public Relations Officer DSP Udeme Edet, the suspects opened fire on the operatives, leading to a fierce exchange. “The patrol team responded with superior firepower, during which one of the bandits sustained fatal gunshot injuries,” she stated.

Items recovered from the suspect included a locally fabricated Beretta pistol, two live 9mm rounds, and a bag containing charms.

The injured suspect was rushed to the General Hospital, Zaki-Biam, where he was pronounced dead. He has been identified as Terkaa Samuel, a known bandit from Jandekyula in Wukari Local Government Area, Taraba State.

DSP Edet added that other gang members managed to escape, possibly injured, but police patrols and tactical teams have been deployed to track them down.

Benue State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ifeanyi Emenari, reassured residents of the police’s commitment to protecting lives and property. Citizens were urged to provide timely and credible information to aid ongoing investigations and mop-up operations.