In a swift response to the killing of a traditional ruler in Benue State, police operatives have eliminated three suspected bandits during a fierce gun battle in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area.
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the neutralisation of three armed bandits following the abduction and brutal murder of Zaki Sughter Agenbeer, a 67-year-old Kindred Head of Mbajiir in Tongov community.
The Incident
The tragic event unfolded on March 7, 2026, at approximately 7:30 p.m., when armed criminals loyal to a notorious local kingpin identified only as “Chen” stormed the residence of the traditional ruler in Une Tongov community.
According to police reports, the bandits forcibly abducted the elderly traditional ruler from his home and dragged him into the surrounding bush. The attackers then executed him in cold blood, reportedly accusing him of being an informant who provided security agencies with intelligence about their criminal operations.
Police Response
Following the discovery of the heinous crime, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Katsina-Ala, working in collaboration with the DPO of neighbouring Ukum, immediately mobilised patrol teams and tactical units to respond to the situation.
Security operatives tracked down the fleeing bandits and engaged them in a fierce gun battle. During the confrontation, three of the suspected criminals were neutralised.
Recovery and Ongoing Operations
The body of the slain traditional ruler has been recovered from the bush and deposited at the Zaki-Biam Hospital mortuary for further examination.
Police authorities have launched an extensive combing operation in the surrounding bushes to apprehend other members of the criminal gang who managed to escape during the gun battle.
Security Concerns in Benue
This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges facing communities in Benue State, particularly in rural areas where armed gangs continue to terrorize residents.
The killing of traditional rulers, who are respected custodians of community values and often serve as bridges between their people and government authorities, represents a particularly disturbing development in the state’s security situation.
Residents of the affected communities are calling on security agencies to intensify efforts to rid the area of criminal elements and restore peace to their neighbourhoods.
The investigation into the murder and the manhunt for the remaining gang members continues as authorities work to ensure that all those responsible for this heinous crime face justice.
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