Armed Fulani herdsmen pictured in rural Nigeria amid Benue ambush security crisis.
The Nigerian police said the victims were members of a joint security team ambushed while responding to violent unrest near Agu Centre.
The Benue State Police Command confirmed that eight additional bodies were discovered following the initial recovery of three officers killed in the attack.
Benue Ambush Death Toll Confirmed by Police
Police spokesperson Sewuese Anene told reporters that search operations were launched immediately after the ambush and continued through the weekend.
Anene said three officers were confirmed dead on Friday, while another eight bodies were recovered later, bringing the total to 11.
She stated that six suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack and are being interrogated by investigators.
The police described the attack as a calculated assault against security personnel deployed to stabilize unrest in Katsina-Ala.
Benue Ambush Investigations Underway
Authorities said the suspects are believed to have direct links to the ambush, which took place during an operation in a rural community.
Anene explained that the investigation is ongoing, with efforts focused on identifying those who planned and carried out the assault.
She added that the Benue State Command would continue joint patrols in the area to prevent further violence.
The ambush occurred in an area that has witnessed repeated clashes between armed groups and state forces in recent months.
Nigeria Security Crisis Deepens
Security analysts said the Benue ambush highlights the scale of Nigeria’s broader security challenges, which include banditry, insurgency, and rural violence.
Reports from Katsina-Ala have documented recurring attacks linked to criminal gangs operating across state borders.
Authorities said recent operations targeted violent groups accused of attacking farming communities and disrupting local markets.
The Nigerian government has deployed joint military and police units in Benue to contain what officials describe as a worsening security situation.
Police Ambush Linked to Armed Groups
Community leaders in Benue said armed groups operating in the area have repeatedly confronted law enforcement agencies.
They said the ambush reflects the growing danger faced by security forces patrolling rural communities in the state.
Local residents reported fleeing Agu Centre as gunfire erupted during the ambush and in subsequent clashes with armed groups.
Authorities said displaced families have been advised to remain in safer areas while operations continue.
Authorities Respond to Benue Attack
Police said the joint task force remains committed to restoring calm and dismantling armed groups in Katsina-Ala.
Anene stated that reinforcements have been deployed to prevent further attacks against security personnel.
She confirmed that those arrested are providing information about the masterminds of the ambush.
The Nigerian Police High Command has directed state officers to intensify intelligence gathering in communities vulnerable to armed violence.
Benue Ambush Victims Honoured
Authorities said the fallen officers will be honoured for their service in protecting communities under threat of violence.
They said their deaths underscore the risks faced daily by security personnel operating in conflict-prone areas.
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The Nigerian police described the ambush as “tragic” and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining law and order in Benue.
Officials appealed to residents to provide information that could lead to the capture of the attackers.
