The Benue State Police Command has announced the killing of a feared bandit, Terkaa Samuel, who hailed from Jandekyula in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Thursday in Makurdi.
According to her, Samuel was gunned down on Wednesday at Channel Two in Zaki-Biam, Ukum LGA, during a shootout between officers and suspected criminals.
Edet explained that security operatives had earlier received credible intelligence alerting them to the presence of armed bandits in the Channel Two axis, reportedly plotting to abduct a local hotel owner. In response, a team from the Ukum Division swiftly moved to the scene.
“Upon sighting the police operatives, the bandits opened fire. The patrol team responded with superior firepower, during which one of the bandits sustained fatal gunshot injuries.”
She added that officers recovered a locally made Beretta pistol, two 9mm live rounds, and a bag loaded with charms from the scene.
The wounded suspect was taken to the General Hospital in Zaki-Biam, where he was later pronounced dead by a medical doctor.
“The deceased was later identified as Terkaa Samuel, a notorious bandit from Jandekyula, Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State,” she said.
Edet further revealed that on the same day, officers of the Jato-Aka Division intervened in a deadly confrontation involving rival cult groups known as Red and Black.
The clash claimed two lives, leaving several others injured and transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
She noted that eight suspects were apprehended, and officers recovered one locally made pistol, an expended cartridge, two axes and two machetes.
The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ifeanyi Emenari, reiterated the Command’s firm resolve to protect residents, assuring the public of continuous efforts to maintain peace and security across the state.
