Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke neutralised a suspected bandit in Jato-Aka, Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State on Tuesday, but the victory was marred by tragedy when stray bullets struck three students, killing one.
The incident happened around 3:20 p.m. as soldiers were returning from a routine patrol. According to sources, the troops encountered armed bandits on a motorcycle. Upon sighting the soldiers, the hoodlums reportedly opened fire, sparking a fierce exchange.
“One of the bandits was gunned down while the rest escaped, abandoning their motorcycle,” the source said.
Sadly, three students of Government Science Secondary School, Jato-Aka, who were closing from school, were caught in the crossfire. A female student was confirmed dead at NKST Hospital, while two others are receiving treatment.
The bandit’s corpse was deposited at the hospital mortuary.
Military sources confirmed the incident, stressing that the soldiers acted in self-defence after being attacked. They described the student’s death as an unfortunate accident and pledged measures to prevent a repeat.
The tragedy triggered outrage in Jato-Aka as angry youths staged a violent protest, setting ablaze the palace of the Mue Ter, the traditional ruler of the area.
Police confirmed the unrest, saying mobile operatives were swiftly deployed to restore calm. “Normalcy has returned, but security patrols are ongoing to prevent further breakdown of law and order,” the command stated.
Authorities have appealed for calm as investigations continue, assuring residents that steps will be taken to forestall future occurrences.
Source:@ZagazolaMakama
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