Bandits kill four police officers, seven civilians in Benue attack

The Benue State Police Command has reported that an attack by suspected armed bandits resulted in the deaths of four police officers and seven civilians in Ayilamo Community, located in Logo Local Government Area. The incident occurred around 6:12pm on Thursday, September 10, 2026. A statement from the Public Relations Officer, DSP Orchia Peter Aondongu, revealed that the attackers, believed to be operating in large numbers, launched a surprise assault on the community.

Police forces, including the Police Mobile Force (PMF), tactical teams, and conventional officers, engaged the bandits in a prolonged gun battle that lasted for approximately seven hours. Despite the intense conflict, security personnel successfully repelled the attackers and forced them to flee into the surrounding forest early Friday morning.

However, the cost was high, with four police officers killed while defending their community and seven civilians losing their lives in the attack. The bodies of the fallen officers were recovered from nearby bushes during search and rescue operations, while the civilians' remains were taken to a mortuary for necessary procedures.

Benue State's Commissioner of Police, CP Cletus C. N. Nwadiogbu, expressed his admiration for the courage, resilience, and gallantry displayed by the officers during the attack. He also paid respects to those who perished, describing their deaths as a solemn sacrifice for the nation. The police commissioner also extended condolences to the families of the deceased civilians and the residents of Ayilamo, assuring them that the command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property.

In response to the attack, additional tactical teams have been deployed to Ayilamo to bolster existing security measures. The police force is collaborating with other security agencies to enhance security and maintain operations in the affected region. The police have urged residents to remain calm and cooperative, providing any information that may aid security agencies in their ongoing efforts to address the situation.