A fresh wave of grief has swept through Benue State following the death of an Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP Aondoaver Asom, who succumbed to injuries sustained during a violent robbery ambush.
The tragic incident has once again drawn attention to security concerns in parts of Benue, particularly along rural highways.
The officer, who was attached to the Ops Zenda Joint Task Force (JTF), was reportedly travelling to resume at a new duty post when the attack occurred.
Sources familiar with the development disclosed that the incident happened on February 24 at Amile community, situated along the Ugbema–Jato-Aka road in Ushongo Local Government Area of Benue.
According to available details, the late officer boarded a commercial vehicle heading towards his destination when suspected armed robbers intercepted the vehicle.
The attackers allegedly ambushed the vehicle at a relatively isolated stretch of the road, forcing it to a halt before opening fire.
Passengers were said to have been thrown into confusion as gunshots rang out.
In the midst of the chaos, the officer reportedly identified himself and took defensive action in an attempt to protect the lives of other occupants.
Witness accounts indicate that he engaged the armed men in a gun duel, demonstrating what colleagues later described as exceptional bravery.
During the exchange, the officer was said to have fatally wounded three of the attackers.
However, he also sustained serious gunshot injuries. Another passenger in the vehicle was injured in the crossfire.
Both victims were immediately rushed to the General Hospital in Gboko for urgent medical attention.
Medical personnel reportedly made efforts to stabilise the wounded officer, but he was confirmed dead while receiving treatment.
The other injured passenger is said to be responding positively to medical care.
Security sources confirmed that the officer’s service rifle was recovered after the incident, and his remains were deposited at the hospital mortuary.
The development has sparked renewed conversations about highway safety and the dangers faced by security personnel and civilians alike in Benue.
The Nigeria Police Force has since paid tribute to the fallen officer, describing his conduct during the attack as courageous and selfless.
In a brief statement, the Force commended his willingness to confront armed criminals despite the obvious risks.
Officials noted that his actions likely prevented further casualties among the passengers.
Community leaders in Ushongo Local Government Area have also expressed sadness over the incident.
Some residents have called for intensified patrols and improved intelligence gathering to curb criminal activities along major roads in Benue.
Security analysts say the episode highlights the persistent threat posed by armed robbery gangs operating in remote areas.
They stress the need for coordinated efforts between law enforcement agencies and local communities to enhance information sharing and rapid response mechanisms.
As investigations continue, authorities are reportedly working to identify and apprehend any surviving members of the robbery gang.
The tragic loss of the officer has become a sobering reminder of the daily risks undertaken by law enforcement personnel in the line of duty.
The incident stands as a painful chapter for Benue, reinforcing calls for stronger security frameworks and better protection for both citizens and officers serving across the state.
Ireport247news
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