2 NSCDC officers killed, others injured in Benue ambush

A deadly ambush by suspected armed herdsmen has claimed the lives of two operatives from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) during a joint security patrol in Benue State.

Three other personnel sustained injuries, while three members of the team remain unaccounted for.

According to a report by Leadership, the NSCDC’s Public Relations Officer, Michael Ejelikwu, confirmed the fatalities, naming the deceased as ASCI Adoli Simon and ASCI Ernest Tyolumun Ayilla.

A security source, who requested anonymity, also said that the incident took place around 3:30 p.m. on Thursday along Ukohol Road in Guma Local Government Area. Initially, one death was reported.

According to the source, “The joint patrol team were on a routine operation and spotted a community which was set on fire by the armed herders few kilometers away from where they were and decided to go there.”

As the team advanced toward the scene, they reportedly walked into an ambush set by the attackers. A local source confirmed that the heavily armed men opened fire, fatally wounding two of the officers.

Among those injured were Police Inspector Ochepo Benjamin and an unnamed NSCDC officer. Both are currently receiving medical treatment at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital in Makurdi.

Meanwhile, the whereabouts of a Police Inspector identified as Muhammed and two other NSCDC operatives remain unknown. A coordinated search operation is underway in an effort to locate them.

When contacted for comment, Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, said she had no information regarding the incident.

The patrol team was made up of personnel from several units, including the Police Mobile Force (13 PMF, 58 PMF), State Intelligence Services (SIS), Operation Zenda, Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU), the NSCDC, Benue State Civil Protection Guards, and local vigilantes.