Benue killings: Police neutralise two suspected bandits after 13 die in Otukpo attack

Benue killings: Police neutralise two suspected bandits after 13 die in Otukpo attack

The Benue State Police Command has expressed regret over the killing of 13 people during a deadly attack on Efeyi Ugboju Community in Otukpo Local Government Area, saying two suspected bandits were neutralised during a follow-up security operation.

The attack reportedly occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, July 28, 2026, when armed attackers invaded the community and allegedly targeted cattle belonging to a resident, Mr Peter Ambulus.

In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Peter Aondona, the command said police operatives were deployed to the area after receiving a distress call.

According to preliminary police findings, the attackers rustled 20 cattle and opened fire on farmers they encountered while fleeing from the community.

The attack claimed 13 lives, according to the police. The incident caused fear and tension in Efeyi Ugboju and nearby communities, with residents expressing concerns over renewed attacks in parts of Otukpo Local Government Area.

Following the attack, the Commissioner of Police in Benue State, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, visited the affected community to assess the security situation and coordinate the response.

READ ALSO:

• “God Revealed You’re My Wife”: Ghana Police Arrest Fake Pastor Over Romance Scam
• NDC Demands Suspension, Resignation of Lagos CP Over City Boy Movement Event Attendance
• Gunmen Abduct INEC Staff in Anambra, Demand N40m Ransom in Dual Attacks

The police commissioner subsequently led tactical teams on a coordinated clearance operation aimed at tracking down the attackers, recovering the stolen cattle and preventing further violence.

During the operation, the police team reportedly came under an ambush from suspected members of the cattle-rustling syndicate, resulting in a gun battle.

The command said two suspected bandits were neutralised during the exchange, while security operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle and 15 rounds of ammunition.

Police said tactical teams were continuing to comb nearby forests and surrounding communities in search of fleeing suspects. The operation is also focused on recovering the stolen cattle and ensuring that everyone connected to the attack is identified and brought to justice.

The Commissioner of Police condemned the killings and extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. He directed tactical and operational commanders to sustain the security operation until all members of the criminal group were apprehended.

The police command reassured residents that efforts were being intensified to restore normalcy and strengthen security in Efeyi Ugboju and surrounding communities.

Residents were urged to remain vigilant and provide credible information that could assist security agencies in locating the fleeing suspects and supporting ongoing investigations.

The latest incident has renewed concerns over insecurity in parts of Benue State, particularly in communities where residents have continued to report attacks and threats to lives, livelihoods and agricultural activities.

Police said the clearance operation would continue as investigations progressed, while security agencies work to identify and apprehend the remaining suspects.

Benue killings: Police neutralise two suspected bandits after 13 die in Otukpo attack