JUST IN: 13 Farmers Killed, 20 Cattle Stolen in Benue Rustling Attack

No fewer than 13 farmers have been killed in a deadly cattle rustling attack on Efeyi Ugboju Community in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, where armed bandits also made away with 20 cattle before opening fire on residents fleeing the scene.

The Benue State Police Command confirmed the attack on Wednesday, describing it as a heinous act and disclosing that two suspected bandits were later killed during a gun battle with security operatives.

According to a statement by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Orchia Peter Aondongu, the attack occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, July 28, when armed bandits invaded the community with the intention of stealing cattle belonging to a resident, Peter Ambulus.

The statement said the Command received a distress call and immediately deployed police operatives to the area.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the attackers successfully rustled 20 cattle before opening fire on farmers they encountered while escaping through the bush.

“Regrettably, thirteen (13) persons lost their lives during the attack, while the hoodlums successfully rustled twenty (20) cattle,” the statement said.

Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Cletus Nwadiogbu, visited the community for an on-the-spot assessment and led a coordinated clearance operation involving tactical teams.

According to the police, the operation came under ambush from suspected members of the cattle rustling syndicate, resulting in a fierce exchange of gunfire.

“At the end of the operation, two suspected bandits were neutralised, while one AK-47 rifle and 15 rounds of ammunition were recovered,” the statement added.

The Command said the operation is ongoing, with tactical teams combing surrounding forests and neighbouring communities to apprehend fleeing suspects, recover the stolen cattle, and bring all those connected with the attack to justice.

Condemning the killings, Commissioner Nwadiogbu described the attack as barbaric and extended condolences to the families of the victims.

He directed tactical and operational commanders to sustain the offensive until every member of the criminal gang responsible for the attack is arrested.

The Benue State Police Command assured residents that all necessary measures were being taken to restore normalcy and strengthen security in the affected community and adjoining areas.

It also urged members of the public to remain calm, stay security conscious, and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing operations.