The police command in Benue on Friday confirmed the killing of four armed bandits by operatives of the Operation Zenda Joint Task Force.

The command’s spokesperson, Edet Udeme, confirmed  the gunfight  in a statement.

Ms Udeme said the bandits were neutralised in a gun duel with the police at a checkpoint in Orakam, Ogbadibo LGA.

She said the officers, while on duty on Thursday, stopped a black Golf, but the occupants tried to prevent them from performing their job.

“In a desperate attempt to evade arrest, two of the suspects removed AK-47 rifles and opened fire on the personnel.

“As a result of the engagement, four armed bandits were neutralised, while one armed suspect fled into a nearby bush,” she said.

Ms Udeme also said they recovered one AK-47 rifle, a magazine containing 15 rounds of live ammunition, the vehicle and assorted charms.

She said efforts were ongoing to track and arrest the fleeing armed suspect.

She said the commissioner of police, Ifeanyi Emenari, has commended the bravery and operational efficiency of the officers and reassured the public of the command’s commitment to safeguard lives and property across the state.

(NAN)