2 policemen, 15 others killed as bandits attack Ukum LGA in Benue

By TYAV SAM TYAV, Makurdi –

Two police officers and 15 other people were reportedly killed in Ayati, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State as bandits tried to resist the ongoing operations by the Benue State Police Command.

A release signed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Sewuese Catherine Anene for the Commissioner, Benue State Police Command revealed that at about 16:30hrs, a large number of armed bandits invaded the village and started shooting sporadically at members of the community.

According to Anene, the Police officers within the community responded immediately and were able to repel the bandits .

She informed that about fifteen (15) people sustained gunshot injuries from the attack and were confirmed dead on arrival at the hospital.

The police spokesperson, further, disclosed that the unfortunate incident also claimed the lives of two (2) police officers who were among the team that responded to the distress call.

She said the corpses have been deposited at General Hospital Ukum and investigation was ongoing.

The Commissioner of Police, CP. Hassan Steve Yabanet, who visited Ayati for on the spot assessment of the situation, commiserated with families of the deceased and assured them of his commitment to fight criminals in the area.

He also appreciated the officers for their response and encouraged them not to give up on the operation as more teams have been sent to the area for a wider coverage and better engagement of bandits.