Benue Police Launch Probe as Body of Missing Woman, Janet Usange, Is Recovered from River Agbuu

The Benue State Police Command has launched a formal investigation into the tragic death of a young woman, Miss Janet Usange, whose lifeless body was recovered from River Agbuu in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State. The development has sparked concern among residents, heightened tensions in the affected community, and prompted demands for a thorough and transparent police inquiry. 

According to reports, Miss Janet Usange was a farmer and resident of the Mbabur community. She was first reported missing on December 11, 2025 after she left her home to attend to her farm. Family members and neighbours reportedly grew alarmed when she failed to return by evening, prompting them to initiate a search of the community and surrounding farmlands. 

During the search, villagers discovered several of her belongings — including her slippers, a wheelbarrow, and farming tools — abandoned on her farm, which only intensified fears for her safety. The absence of credible leads and the eerie discovery of her possessions raised questions about what might have happened to her after she left home that morning. 

The situation worsened on Sunday when a local resident spotted a body floating in River Agbuu. The resident immediately alerted others, leading to the recovery of the body, which was later identified as that of Miss Usange. The discovery sent shockwaves through the community, especially since many had feared she was missing rather than harmed. 

Following the recovery of the body, the Benue State Police Command swiftly commenced an official investigation into the circumstances of her death. The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in the area confirmed that the case was formally reported and that detectives have been assigned to carry out a comprehensive probe. While police have not yet released an official cause of death or detailed findings, the investigation is understood to include forensic examination of the remains and interviews with potential witnesses. 

The incident has also triggered heightened tensions in the Mbabur community. Some residents reported that a house belonging to a local community member was set ablaze by individuals alleged to be relatives of the deceased — though details remain unverified. This escalation of fear among residents has underscored calls for increased security presence and rapid resolution of the case. 

In response to community concerns, local leaders have appealed to security agencies and authorities in Gwer East Local Government to intervene swiftly to avert further unrest and potential reprisals. They have stressed the need for a prompt, impartial, and transparent investigation to determine whether Miss Usange’s death was the result of criminal violence, accident, or other circumstances, and to ensure that justice is served.