By Jelili Gbadamosi
Four police officers and seven civilians have been killed in a prolonged gun battle between security operatives and suspected armed bandits in Ayilamo Community, Logo Local Government Area of Benue State.
The Benue State Police Command confirmed that the attack occurred at about 6:12pm on Thursday, September 10, 2026, when the suspected bandits, who were said to be operating in large numbers, invaded the community.
The attackers were engaged by operatives comprising personnel of the Police Mobile Force, tactical teams and conventional police officers.
According to the command, the gun battle lasted about seven hours before the security operatives succeeded in repelling the attackers.
The suspects reportedly retreated into the surrounding forest in the early hours of Friday.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Orchia Peter Aondongu, the command said four officers lost their lives while defending the community.
Their bodies were subsequently recovered from surrounding bushes during search and rescue operations.
Seven civilians were also confirmed killed in the attack, with their bodies recovered and deposited at a mortuary for necessary procedures.
The Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Cletus C. N. Nwadiogbu, commended the officers and other operatives involved in the operation for their courage, resilience and gallantry.
Nwadiogbu described the death of the officers as the ultimate sacrifice in the service of the nation.
He also condoled with the families of the deceased civilians and residents of Ayilamo, assuring them that the command remained committed to protecting lives and property in the state.
Following the attack, the police said additional tactical teams had been deployed to Ayilamo to reinforce existing security arrangements.
The command added that it was collaborating with other security agencies to strengthen operations and prevent further attacks in the affected area.
Residents were urged to remain calm and vigilant and provide security agencies with timely information that could aid ongoing operations.
