The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the death of 11 security operatives in an attack by suspected herdsmen and local militia in Agu Centre, Katsina Ala Local Government Area.
The latest development was disclosed on Monday by a counter-insurgency expert and security analyst, Zagazola Makama, via his X handle.
He wrote: “Police in Benue have confirmed the recovery of seven more bodies of security operatives killed in a deadly encounter with suspected herdsmen and local militia in Agu Centre, Katsina Ala Local Government Area.
“Sources told Zagazola Makama that the latest recovery brought the total casualty figure to 11 security personnel.
“According to him, the recovered bodies comprise six police officers and one Civil Protection Guard, while the remains have been deposited at the Katsina Ala General Hospital.
Zagazola said that ASP John Aledu, attached to Operation Zenda, was still unaccounted for as of the time of the report.
“The recovered bodies have been preserved as efforts are ongoing to contact their families. In total, nine police officers, one hunter, and one Civil Protection Guard paid the supreme price during the encounter,”said the sources.
“The sources further disclosed that police tactical teams, working in collaboration with local hunters and vigilantes, had intensified search and rescue operations for the missing officer.
“The sources added that 15 more suspects were arrested in Ukum Local Government Area in connection with the incident, bringing the total number of suspects in custody to 21, following the arrest of six others earlier in Katsina Ala.
He assured that the command, in conjunction with sister agencies, was committed to tracking down all perpetrators of the heinous crime.