By Atoyebi Nike
The death toll from Friday’s deadly ambush on security operatives at Agu Centre, on the Katsina-Ala–Ukum border in Benue State, has risen to 11.
Authorities confirmed on Monday that the bodies of eight missing officers were recovered, adding to the three initially declared dead. The casualties include 10 policemen and one member of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard (BSCPG).
The joint team, comprising operatives from Operation Zenda, the BSCPG, and the Special Intervention Squad (SIS), reportedly encountered heavily armed invaders during the attack.
Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA, Dr. Justine Shaku, described the atmosphere in the area as tense but said security agencies are on the ground. Police Commissioner Ifeanyi Emenari is also coordinating operations.
Accounts from insiders praised the bravery of the officers, including ASP Danlamin Usman (popularly known as Dan Zuru), who resisted despite being heavily outnumbered.
Police spokesperson DSP Udeme Edet confirmed the recovery of the bodies, adding that investigations are ongoing and efforts are underway to track down the perpetrators.
