At least 11 security operatives are feared dead following a violent encounter around the Agu Center general area in Mbatula/Mberev Council Ward, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.

According to Daily Trust, it was gathered that the incident occurred on Friday night.

Dr. Shaku Justine, Chairman of Katsina-Ala LGA, told Daily Trust correspondent via telephone on Sunday afternoon that 11 security personnel involved in the clearance operations remained missing, while three bodies had been recovered so far.

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“Two bodies were first recovered late Friday night, and a rescue team continued combing the bushes throughout Saturday. As of Sunday morning, one more body was recovered,” Justine stated.

Residents, however, alleged that as many as 16 security operatives went missing during the encounter with multiple armed invaders.

The council chairman added that several officers involved in the operation are still unaccounted for, including one known as Danzuru, who was reportedly captured alive by armed bandits.