Nigerian Soldiers Neutralize Suspected Bandits in Benue State Operation

Nigerian soldiers successfully neutralized two suspected bandits in Benue State during an operation along the Naka-Makurdi road. The troops responded swiftly to a distress call from locals and engaged the bandits in a gun duel, resulting in the death of two suspects.

The incident occurred in an area known for kidnappings and killings by armed bandits, prompting heightened security operations in the state, especially after the Yelwata massacre in June the previous year. The soldiers, led by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, conducted a snap ambush operation on January 26, 2026, resulting in the neutralization of the two suspects while a third managed to escape.

Major General Mose Gara commended the troops for their professionalism and success in the intelligence-driven operation. The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to joint task force operations to improve security in the region.