Gunmen kill two operation Zenda officers in Benue, stealing weapons. Police launch a manhunt and investigation into the Otukpo checkpoint attack

Benue gunmen kill two operation Zenda officers in a late-night assault on a security checkpoint along the Otukpo–Ohimini road, sparking an intensive police manhunt.

Also read: Benin City Gunmen Kill Europe Returnee over Jewellery

According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, the attack occurred around 11:59 p.m. on October 22. The victims were identified as Inspector Akpan Ogbole of the Nigeria Police Force and Abechi Oche of the Nigeria Forest and Hunters Services.

Reports said the officers were caught in a gun battle with unidentified assailants and later rushed to Otukpo General Hospital, where they died while receiving treatment.

“The sources said tactical teams led by the Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (Operations) had been deployed to Otukpo Area Command to coordinate aggressive anti-crime operations aimed at arresting the perpetrators and dismantling criminal gangs operating in the area,” Makama wrote on his X handle.

Police authorities confirmed that the gunmen fled the scene with an AK-47 rifle belonging to the police and a pump-action gun from the Hunters Service.

The Benue State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) has reportedly opened a full investigation into the incident, while tactical teams are combing the area for the killers and their hideouts.

Also read: Gunmen Kill Catholic Priest Rev. Fr. Eya in Enugu

The victims’ remains have been deposited at the hospital mortuary, and security operations are ongoing to restore calm around Otukpo and neighbouring communities.