Tragedy struck in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State as armed herdsmen ambushed a joint security team, leaving 16 operatives dead and several others missing.

The attack occurred on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Agu Centre, Mbatyula/Mberev Council Ward, when over 90 personnel from Operation Anyam Nyor—a state joint security task force made up of police officers and members of the Benue State Civil Protection Guards—ran into a deadly ambush.

According to eyewitnesses, the security team, led by ASP Danlami Usman (popularly known as Dan Zuru), was on a mission to flush out armed herdsmen when they were cornered between Tse Agbami and Agu Centre. The attackers, reportedly numbering close to 1,000, included local militias and mercenaries.

Survivors revealed that trucks were burnt, motorcycles carted away, and several operatives injured during the fierce gun battle. ASP Usman was also captured, with his phone later answered by unknown persons speaking a different language.

The Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA, Justine Shaku, confirmed the incident, noting that at least 10 operatives are still unaccounted for, while only two bodies have so far been recovered.

In response, the Nigeria Police Force announced on Sunday, September 21, that six suspects linked to the ambush had been arrested by a special tactical team. Force PRO CSP Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed that three officers were killed in the attack, while seven others remain missing.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, strongly condemned the assault, describing it as “cruel, unwarranted, and an affront on the good people of Benue State.” He ordered the deployment of additional tactical units to rescue missing personnel and dismantle criminal networks operating in the area.

Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and vigilant, assuring that efforts are ongoing to restore peace and security in Katsina-Ala and surrounding communities.