By Peace Udugba
Operatives recover AK-47 rifle, ammunition, intensify search for fleeing attackers and stolen cattle
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed that 13 persons were killed in Tuesday’s deadly attack on Efeyi community in Ugboju, Otukpo Local Government Area of the state, as security operatives launched a clearance operation to apprehend the attackers and recover rustled cattle.
The command also disclosed that two suspected bandits were killed during a counter-operation, while an AK-47 rifle and 15 rounds of live ammunition were recovered from the suspects.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, made the disclosure in a statement issued on Wednesday, explaining that the attack was carried out by armed bandits who invaded the community to steal cattle belonging to a resident, Peter Ambulus.
According to the statement, preliminary investigations revealed that the attackers opened fire on farmers they encountered while fleeing with the stolen livestock.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the armed bandits invaded the community with the sole intention of rustling cattle belonging to one Peter Ambulus, a native of the area.
“While escaping with the rustled cattle, the assailants opened fire on farmers they encountered in the bush.
“Regrettably, thirteen persons lost their lives during the attack, while the hoodlums successfully rustled 20 cattle,” the statement read.
The police confirmation differs from earlier reports by residents, who had claimed that 15 people were killed during the early morning attack on Tuesday.
The command further disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, Cletus Nwadiogbu, personally led tactical teams on a clearance operation in the affected community shortly after the incident.
During the operation, security operatives reportedly came under heavy gunfire from the fleeing bandits but successfully repelled the attack.
“At the end of the operation, two of the suspected bandits were neutralised, while one AK-47 rifle and 15 rounds of ammunition were recovered,” the police added.
The command said the operation remains ongoing, with security personnel combing nearby forests and neighbouring communities to arrest fleeing suspects, recover the stolen cattle, and bring all those responsible for the attack to justice.
Condemning the attack, the Benue State Police Command reassured residents of its commitment to restoring peace and strengthening security across the affected community and other vulnerable areas of the state.
