JTF foils bandits’ attack in Benue, arrests two suspects

Operatives of the OPS Zenda Joint Task Force (JTF) have repelled an attack by suspected armed bandits in Yonov Ward of Logo Local Government Area, Benue State, arresting two suspects and recovering a motorcycle.

Sources disclosed that the incident occurred at about 10:20 a.m. on February 23 when the JTF commander, alongside personnel on special duty and the Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU), responded to a distress call reporting that armed bandit herders were destroying farmlands and advancing toward the community.

Security operatives moved to the area to make arrests but came under heavy gunfire from the attackers, resulting in a gun battle. The team reportedly overpowered the bandits with superior firepower, forcing them to flee into nearby bushes and abandon a Honda motorcycle, which was recovered at the scene.

Two suspects were arrested during the operation. Police said the suspects claimed they had bought the disputed land from a suspected bandit identified as Abagu for an undisclosed amount.

Security agencies said efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects, while investigations into the incident continue.