Benue State has been plagued by recurring violent attacks, kidnappings, and killings, often attributed to armed herdsmen, leaving residents in a state of fear and insecurity.
No fewer than 4 police officers and seven residents have been confirmed dead following a deadly attack by suspected Fulani armed herders on Ayilamo community in Logo Local Government Area of Benue State.
The Benue State Police Command disclosed the incident in a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer, DSP Peter Aondona, saying the attack began on the evening of September 10 and continued into the early hours of September 11 before security operatives forced the assailants to retreat.
According to the statement, a large number of armed attackers invaded the community at about 6 p.m., prompting an immediate response from Police Mobile Force (PMF) personnel, tactical units and conventional police officers deployed to the area.
The Command said the security operatives engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle that lasted about seven hours, successfully defending the community and pushing the armed men into nearby forests with what it described as heavy casualties.
However, four police officers lost their lives during the operation. Their bodies were later recovered during search-and-rescue efforts conducted in the surrounding bushes.
Police also confirmed that the bodies of seven civilians were recovered after the attack and deposited in a mortuary for necessary procedures.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Cletus Nwadiogbu, praised the courage and dedication of the officers who confronted the attackers despite the danger.
He paid tribute to the slain officers for making what he described as the ultimate sacrifice in the service of the nation and expressed condolences to the families of the deceased civilians and the people of Ayilamo community.
The Commissioner assured residents that the Command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
Meanwhile, the Police Command said additional tactical teams have been deployed to the affected area to strengthen security and prevent further attacks. It added that it is working with other security agencies to sustain operations in the community.
The Command also appealed to residents to remain calm, stay vigilant and provide timely information that could assist security agencies in ongoing operations.
