Security Officers Killed At Checkpoint In Benue

Two security officers of Operation Zenda, a Joint Security Task Force (JTF) in Benue State, have reportedly been killed at a checkpoint along the Otukpo-Ohimini Road by unidentified assailants.

The officers were identified by a source who did not want his name in print as Insp. Akpan Ogbole, and Abechi Oche of the Nigerian Forest and Hunters Services.

According to the source, the duo who sustained gunshot wounds during a gun battle with the attackers were rushed to the Otukpo General Hospital but later died while receiving treatment, while their bodies have been deposited at the hospital morgue.

The source disclosed that the assailants carted away one AK-47 rifle belonging to the police officer and one pump-action gun belonging to the Forest Hunter.

Our correspondent also gathered that tactical teams led by the acting assistant commissioner of Police (Operations) have been deployed to the Otukpo area command to coordinate operations aimed at arresting the perpetrators.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, Udeme Edet who confirmed the killing, simply said, “Sorry, the matter is under investigation.”