Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), alongside a mobile police team, responded after suspected armed herdsmen attacked a checkpoint at Ayilamo in Logo Local Government Area of Benue State.
On sighting the troops, the attackers fled into nearby bushes.
The security personnel then launched a follow-up operation in the area to track the fleeing suspects and restore calm.
During the operation, troops recovered the body of a police inspector who was killed in the attack.
His remains have been deposited at the Ayilamo Hospital mortuary for autopsy and other procedures.
Authorities said the attack was another reminder of the security challenges still facing parts of Benue, where rural communities and security formations remain targets.
The military said patrols and surveillance had been intensified around Uzer, Ayilamo and other border areas of Logo LGA, while efforts were ongoing to apprehend those behind the attack and prevent a repeat.
Residents have been urged to remain calm and volunteer useful information to security agencies.
The spokesman of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Orchia Aondogwu, could not be reached to confirm the incident as of press time, as calls to his mobile phones went unanswered.
Police inspector killed as suspected herdsmen attack checkpoint in Benue