The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the arrest of six suspects following a coordinated attack on its tactical teams in the Katsina-Ala/Ukum axis of Benue State.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the incident occurred on Friday, September 19, 2025, when suspected armed herders and local militias ambushed officers at the Agu Centre.
The assault left three policemen dead, while seven others remain unaccounted for. Hundeyin disclosed that those arrested are already providing useful intelligence to aid the ongoing investigation.
He said the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, described the killing as “barbaric and an affront to the peace-loving people of Benue State.” The IGP also ordered the deployment of additional tactical assets to restore calm in the troubled communities.
Benue State Commissioner of Police, CP Innocent Emenari, is currently spearheading rescue operations for the missing personnel and pursuing the perpetrators believed to be hiding in surrounding areas.
The Police appealed for calm and urged residents to cooperate with security forces during the intensified operations.
Meanwhile, separate reports indicate that at least 16 people were killed in fresh violence across Makurdi and Katsina Ala local government areas. Six victims were confirmed dead in Abagena and Asom villages of Makurdi during early morning raids, while 10 security operatives were slain in Katsina Ala.
