Benue State Police Command has confirmed that on 6th February, 2026, around 12:40 p.m., its operatives conducting confidence-building patrols in Kwande Local Government Area successfully repelled an attack by suspected armed herdsmen in Awanse community, rescuing a woman who had been abducted.
In a statement signed by DSP Udeme Edet, Police Public Relations Officer, the Command explained that the suspected attackers invaded Awanse firing sporadically and abducted a woman along the road.
The police responded promptly, engaged the assailants, and forced them to flee, successfully rescuing the victim unharmed.
The Command added that following the operation, the community was secured, and additional tactical police units were deployed to reinforce safety and deter any further attacks.
An update was also provided on a previous attack in Abende community on 3rd February 2026.
During ongoing search and combing operations, five more bodies were recovered, bringing the total death toll in Abende to ten (10).
The overall security situation in the affected areas is currently stable, with continuous patrols, surveillance, and monitoring being maintained.
The Commissioner of Police, Benue State Police Command, CP Ifeanyi Emenari reassured residents of the Command’s steadfast dedication to protecting lives and property, emphasizing that all necessary measures are in place to prevent further attacks and ensure perpetrators face justice.
