The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the death of a passenger after suspected armed bandits opened fire on a commercial bus in Ohimini Local Government Area of the state.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, February 5, around 2:00 a.m., at Ojali community, according to police sources.
The bus, an 18-seater Hummer vehicle with registration number GME 911 XE (Gombe), was conveying passengers from Akwa Ibom State to Gombe State when it came under attack. Police said the vehicle, driven by Musa Jibrin, was ambushed by gunmen who opened fire from the surrounding bushes while the bus was in motion.
One passenger, identified as 30-year-old Sanusi Danmaji, was fatally shot during the attack. Authorities confirmed that no passenger was abducted by the assailants.
Following the incident, the Divisional Police Officer in Ohimini swiftly deployed patrol teams and tactical operatives to the area. Security personnel secured the scene, documented evidence, and carried out a combing operation of nearby bushes in a bid to track down the attackers.
After security clearance was granted, the driver and remaining passengers were allowed to continue their journey.
The police said the case has been transferred to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation, while efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible.
The command has advised travellers to remain vigilant, especially during night journeys, and to report any suspicious movement or activity to the nearest security agency.