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Benue State Police Confirm Elimination of Infamous Bandit Terkaa Samuel
In a significant development, the Benue State Police Command has officially announced the death of Terkaa Samuel, a well-known bandit originating from Jandekyula in Wukari Local Government Area, Taraba State. This confirmation was made public by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, in a statement released on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from Makurdi.
Details of the Operation and Encounter
According to DSP Edet, the incident occurred on Wednesday near Channel Two, Zaki-Biam in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State. The police had received credible intelligence indicating that a group of armed bandits was congregating in the area with plans to abduct a local hotel owner. In response, a patrol team from the Ukum Division was promptly dispatched to the location.
Upon arrival, the police operatives were met with gunfire from the bandits. The patrol team retaliated with superior firepower, resulting in Terkaa Samuel sustaining fatal gunshot wounds. During the confrontation, officers recovered a locally made Beretta pistol, two live 9mm rounds, and a bag containing traditional charms from the deceased.
Samuel was immediately transported to General Hospital, Zaki-Biam, where medical personnel confirmed his death. This operation marks a critical blow to banditry activities in the region.
Additional Security Challenges: Cult Clash in Jato-Aka
On the same day, law enforcement officers from the Jato-Aka Division intervened in a violent altercation between rival cult factions known as the Red and Black groups. The clash tragically resulted in two fatalities, with several others sustaining injuries of varying severity. The wounded were promptly taken to nearby health facilities for medical attention.
During the police response, eight suspects were apprehended. Authorities confiscated one locally fabricated pistol, a spent cartridge, two axes, and two machetes from the suspects, further curbing the potential for ongoing violence.
Police Commitment to Public Safety
Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, has reiterated the Command’s steadfast dedication to protecting the lives and properties of Benue State residents. He emphasized that the police force will continue to employ strategic operations to dismantle criminal networks and maintain peace across the state.
Context and Impact
Banditry and cult-related violence have posed significant security challenges in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region, including Benue and Taraba States. Recent government efforts, including enhanced intelligence gathering and community policing, have contributed to notable successes such as the neutralization of Terkaa Samuel. According to the Nigerian Security Tracker, incidents of banditry-related kidnappings have decreased by approximately 15% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the previous year, signaling progress in the fight against organized crime.
Continued vigilance and collaboration between security agencies and local communities remain essential to sustaining these gains and fostering a safer environment for all citizens.
