A policeman and two civilians were killed on Thursday when security forces engaged suspected militias in a gun duel in Benue State.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Moses Yamu, who confirmed this in a statement, said the incident occurred in Zaki Biam town of the state.

He explained that the suspects reportedly dressed in police uniforms, approached the area on motorcycles to seek refuge in the town.

Mr Yamu disclosed that the suspects were fleeing from the Operation Whirl Stroke before they were intercepted by the security forces, after which a fierce exchange of gunfire ensued.

In the course, according to him, a police officer, as well as a woman and a boy sustained fatal injuries and were later rushed to the hospital where they were confirmed dead.

The Police Command assured residents of the town of their safety, noting that efforts were ongoing to arrest the suspects and bring them to book.

•Sourced from Channels TV report