Gunmen kill two security operatives at Benue checkpoint

Two security officers of the Operation Zenda Joint Task Force (JTF) in Benue state have reportedly been killed at a checkpoint along the Otukpo–Ohimini axis of the state.

According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication, the incident occurred around 11:59 pm on Wednesday. 

The publication said the officers were Akpan Ogbole, an inspector of the Nigeria police force, and Abechi Oche of the Nigeria Forest and Hunters Services.

Makama said the duo sustained gunshot wounds during a crossfire with the attackers and were rushed to the Otukpo General Hospital.

The officers later died while receiving treatment, and their bodies have been deposited at the hospital’s mortuary.

Police said the assailants carted away one AK-47 rifle belonging to the police and one pump-action gun belonging to the Forest and Hunters Services.

The publication reported that tactical teams led by the acting assistant commissioner of police (operations) have been deployed to the Otukpo area command to coordinate “aggressive” anti-crime operations.

This operation is aimed at arresting the perpetrators and dismantling criminal gangs operating in the area.

Makama noted that the state criminal investigation department (SCID) has commenced a full investigation into the incident.