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From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
The Benue State Police Command has expressed regret over the killing of 13 people during a deadly cattle-rustling attack in Efeyi, Ugboju Community, Otukpo Local Government , saying two suspected bandits were neutralised during a follow-up operation.
The command disclosed this in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Peter Aondona, and made available to journalists in Makurdi on Wednesday.
According to the statement, the attack occurred in the early hours of July 28 when armed bandits invaded the community with the alleged intention of stealing cattle belonging to a resident, Mr Peter Ambulus.
The police said operatives were immediately deployed to the area after receiving a distress call.
Preliminary investigations, according to the command, revealed that the attackers rustled 20 cattle before opening fire on farmers they encountered while fleeing, leaving 13 persons dead.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, visited the affected community for an on-the-spot assessment before leading tactical teams on a coordinated clearance operation.
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The command disclosed that the police team came under ambush from suspected members of the cattle-rustling syndicate, resulting in a gun battle.
It said two suspected bandits were killed during the exchange, while one AK-47 rifle and 15 rounds of ammunition were recovered.
According to the police, the operation is ongoing, with tactical teams combing nearby forests and surrounding communities to arrest fleeing suspects, recover the stolen cattle and bring all those involved to justice.
The Commissioner of Police condemned the attack and extended condolences to the families of the victims.
He also directed tactical and operational commanders to sustain the operation until every member of the criminal gang is apprehended.
The command reassured residents of its commitment to restoring normalcy and strengthening security in the affected community, urging members of the public to remain vigilant and provide credible information to support ongoing investigations.
