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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 Area, saying two suspected bandits were neutralized during a follow-up operation.
This was contained in a statement issued on signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Peter Aondona and made available to newsmen in Makurdi on Wednesday.
The command said 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.
According to the police, operatives were immediately deployed to the area after receiving a distress call.
The police said preliminary investigations indicated that the attackers rustled 20 cattle and opened 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 in the area.
The command disclosed that the police team came under ambush from suspected members of the cattle rustling syndicate during the operation, resulting in a gun battle.
It said two suspected bandits were killed in the exchange, while one AK-47 rifle and 15 rounds of ammunition were recovered.
Police said the operation is ongoing, with tactical teams combing nearby forests and surrounding communities to arrest the fleeing suspects, recover the stolen cattle and bring all those involved in the attack 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 and urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide credible information to support ongoing investigations.
