A Special Duty-bound Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) and four civilians have been killed following a fresh attack by armed bandits on Abande Community in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State.
The attack occurred on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at about 5:30 p.m., after the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Jato-Aka received a distress call reporting that suspected armed herders, believed to be bandits, had invaded the community in large numbers. The assailants reportedly attacked both police personnel stationed in Abande and residents of the area.
Confirming the incident in a statement on Wednesday, the spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, said the police officer, who was attached to the 13 Police Mobile Force (PMF) in Makurdi, lost his life during a confrontation with the attackers while operatives were responding to the distress call.
“Sadly, four members of the community also lost their lives in the attack carried out by the bandits,” the statement said, adding that the bodies of the deceased have been recovered and deposited at an undisclosed mortuary.
Following the incident, combined teams of police operatives and other security agencies have been deployed to Abande Community to secure the area, carry out intensive search operations, and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
The Benue State Police Command commiserated with the families of the deceased and the Abande Community, assuring residents that all necessary measures are being taken to apprehend those responsible and restore peace, as investigations and security operations continue.
Blessing Anolaba
Editorial & Creative Correspondent
A storyteller and journalist passionate about telling stories for policy change and impact.
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