Two police officers were injured on Sunday night following an ambush by unidentified gunmen along the Ogobia–Adoka Road in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State.
The officers, identified as Inspector Amos Okoh and Inspector Joseph Adowebo, were reportedly on routine patrol when they came under heavy gunfire around 9 p.m. from suspected criminals hiding along the route.
According to local sources, the officers were taken by surprise during their patrol duty and sustained gunshot wounds in the attack.
Upon receiving a distress call, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Adoka Division quickly dispatched a reinforcement team to the scene. The backup unit was able to rescue the injured officers and transport them to the Teaching Hospital in Otukpo.
Medical personnel at the hospital confirmed that both officers are currently receiving treatment and responding well.
The Benue State Police Command has since launched a full-scale manhunt for the attackers. In a brief statement, the Command condemned the attack and assured the public that efforts are underway to track down and apprehend the culprits.
“We have deployed all necessary resources to ensure those behind this cowardly act are arrested and brought to justice,” a police spokesperson said.
The Command also appealed to members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing any useful information that could assist in the investigation.
Sunday night’s ambush adds to the growing list of security challenges in Benue State, which has seen frequent incidents of violence, including clashes between armed groups, bandit attacks, and other criminal activities.
The police have reiterated their commitment to maintaining law and order and urged residents to remain vigilant, especially in vulnerable areas.
Investigations into the incident are still ongoing as the search for the gunmen continues.
