Police Recover Seven More Corpses of Operatives in Benue Attacks, Death Toll Now 11

A tragic escalation in violence rocked Benue State as seven additional bodies of security operatives were recovered following a deadly ambush by suspected armed herders and local militia members. This latest development has pushed the death toll to 11, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in the region.

Ambush at Agu Centre

The attack occurred on September 19, 2025, at Agu Centre, located within the Katsina-Ala and Ukum Local Government Areas. Armed herders and militia reportedly launched a coordinated assault on a patrol of security operatives, including police officers and other tactical teams, resulting in multiple casualties.

Initial reports confirmed the deaths of three police officers during the ambush, but subsequent recovery efforts by the police and military have uncovered seven more bodies. According to counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, the total number of casualties now stands at eleven, comprising nine police officers, one civil protection guard, and one local hunter.

Ongoing Rescue and Investigation Efforts

The Nigeria Police Force swiftly responded to the incident, launching extensive operations to track down the perpetrators and rescue any missing personnel. The Benue State Commissioner of Police, Innocent Ifeanyi Emenari, is personally overseeing these efforts.

Six suspects linked to the attack have already been apprehended and are currently in custody, providing valuable intelligence to security agencies. The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, assured the public that additional tactical units have been deployed to the area, with a commitment to “leave no stone unturned” in restoring peace and security.

Calls for Public Support and Vigilance

Authorities have urged residents of Benue State and the wider Nigerian community to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive of ongoing security operations. With banditry and militia violence posing serious threats, cooperation between security forces and the public is critical.

The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its resolve to dismantle the criminal networks responsible for such attacks and prevent further loss of life.

Background: Security Challenges in Benue

This ambush is the latest in a series of violent incidents affecting security forces in Benue State. The region has long struggled with clashes between herders, local militias, and law enforcement, often resulting in casualties on all sides.

A joint team of elite operatives from the State Intelligence Service (SIS), Operation Zenda, and Forest Guard had been conducting a patrol in the area when the attack occurred. The patrol was targeting a known bandit camp at Agu Centre.