Operatives of the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the police, successfully thwarted an armed bandit assault on Ankpali village in Apa Local Government Area of Benue State in the early hours of Wednesday.

Sources disclosed that security agencies received an emergency alert around 2:45 am, reporting that gunmen had invaded the community and were attacking residents.

Following the distress call, additional personnel from the Nigerian Army and the 80 Police Mobile Force, PMF, unit were deployed to the area to reinforce the initial team.

A fierce exchange of gunfire ensued, forcing the attackers to withdraw from the village. During the confrontation, one of the bandits was neutralised, and his remains were later taken to the mortuary.

Security officials revealed that intensive efforts are currently underway to trace and arrest the fleeing suspects linked to the incident.

Meanwhile, residents of Ankpali praised the prompt action of the security operatives, stating that their quick intervention helped avert greater destruction and loss of lives and property.