The Benue Police Command has said the deadly attack on Ayati community of Ukum Local Government Area of the state is a panic measure by bandits to resist the ongoing security operations in the area.
The police said that on August 8, 2024, at about 4:30 pm while normal daily activities were going on in Ayati village, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, a large number of armed bandits invaded the village and started shooting sporadically at members of the community.
This was contained in a statement on Friday by the spokesperson of the Benue Police Command, SP Catherine Anene.
She said police officers in the community responded immediately and were able to repel the bandits.
Anene said 15 people had already sustained gunshot injuries from the attack and were confirmed dead on arrival at the hospital.
“The unfortunate incident also claimed the lives of two police officers who were among the team that responded to the distress call.
” Corpses have been deposited at General Hospital Ukum and investigation is ongoing,” she said.
Anene said the Commissioner of Police, Hassan Yabanet, visited Ayati for an on-the-spot assessment of the situation.
According to her, while commiserating with the families of the deceased, he assured them of his commitment to fight criminals in the area.
“The CP also commended officers for their response and encouraged them not to give up on the operation as more teams have been sent to the area for wider coverage and better engagement of bandits,” Anene said.
