A tragic incident unfolded in Otukpo, Benue State, on October 20, 2023, when a group of armed robbers simultaneously targeted five banks in the area. Access, First, Zenith, UBA, and Stanbic banks all found themselves under attack, resulting in a violent showdown between the criminals and law enforcement officers.
In a valiant effort to thwart the robbery, the Otukpo Divisional Police Officer (DPO), CSP. John Adikwu, and his team swiftly responded, engaging the armed robbers in a fierce gun battle. Despite their courage and determination, they were unable to prevent the robbery's execution.
Tragically, during the exchange of gunfire, CSP. John Adikwu and three other police officers lost their lives. Several other individuals inside the banks sustained injuries and were promptly transported to the hospital for medical treatment.
The situation in Otukpo remains tense following this brazen robbery. In response, additional police teams, in collaboration with other security agents, have been deployed to the area.
The Benue State Police Command's spokesperson, SP Catherine Anene, expressed her condolences and made a solemn promise that the perpetrators of this heinous crime would face justice. She stated, "We fight harder when we cry. It won’t be over till it’s over. Rest on SP Adikwu. Your killers will pay. You told me you want to fight crime in your hometown."
Furthermore, the robbers, while attempting to escape along the Otukpo-Taraku road, engaged officers in a gunfight. Two of the robbers lost their lives during this confrontation, while others abandoned their vehicles and fled into the forest, with the police in hot pursuit.
In the words of the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO): "The DPO who sustained a gunshot injury on his stomach and three other police officers have been confirmed dead at the hospital. Other persons who sustained injuries in the bank have been moved to the hospital for treatment. We waited for them on their escape route and engaged them, they had to abandon their vehicle towards Taraku town. We pursued them into the bush and fell two of them. We apprehended one alive."
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in their line of duty, and the commitment of those officers to maintaining public safety even in the face of adversity.
SEE BELOW:
