By Amos Aar
THE NIGERIA Police Force has confirmed the arrest of six suspects in connection with the deadly attack on its tactical teams and the local security task force, Anyam Nyór, at Agu Centre in Katsina-Ala/Ukum LGA of Benue State.
The incident, which occurred on Friday, September 19, 2025, claimed the lives of at least three officers, including Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Danlamin Usman, popularly known as Dan Zuru, while seven others remain missing.
The casualty figure was still rising last Sunday night, according to sources from the area.
According to insider accounts, the operation was led by ASP Dan Zuru, a police officer known for his bravery in counter-banditry operations across the Sankera axis. He was accompanied by veteran officer John “Bushman” and Commander Mike Tuurga of Anyam Nyór. Acting on intelligence, the team set out to dislodge armed herdsmen who had regrouped at Agu Centre after reportedly suffering earlier losses to security forces.
However, the police and task force operatives were ambushed by a combined force of herdsmen, local bandits, and mercenary militias from Taraba State, who had reportedly fortified their positions.
A fierce gun battle ensued, with the attackers deploying assault rifles and rocket-propelled grenades. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the officers reportedly held their ground, with Dan Zuru providing covering fire to enable his colleagues to retreat. He was later listed missing in action.
Other casualties include Inspector Solomon Ogebe, Civil Protection Guard Navas Kukaa, and NFSS operative Mbakiir Torpine.
Confirming the development, Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as “cruel, unwarranted, and an affront on the good people of Benue State.”
Hundeyin said the arrested suspects are already assisting with useful information, while the IGP has ordered the deployment of additional tactical assets to the troubled area.
He assured that no stone would be left unturned in rescuing missing personnel, apprehending fleeing suspects, and dismantling the criminal networks behind the attack.
The Benue State Commissioner of Police, CP Innocent Ifeanyi Emenari, is personally leading the ongoing response operations, according to the statement by CSP Hundenyin.
