Four Policemen, Civilians Killed In Benue Community Attack

At least 11 people, including four policemen, were killed after armed attackers invaded Ayilamo community in Tombo Ward, Logo Local Government Area of Benue State.

Punch reported 11 deaths, citing the Benue State Police Command for four policemen and seven civilians. Daily Trust reported four mobile policemen and eight villagers killed, based on local accounts. The confirmed toll is therefore at least 11, while one report put the number of civilians killed at eight.

The attack was said to have started between Thursday night and the early hours of Friday. Residents told both outlets that the attackers came through Alufu Road from neighbouring Taraba State, shot at residents and set houses on fire.

A local resident, Tyolumun Ugande, said mobile policemen deployed to the area engaged the attackers for several hours before the gunmen retreated. Bodies of the policemen were reportedly found in the bush on Friday morning.

Daily Trust said Ayilamo lies along the Abinsi-Tyulen-Anyiin-Wukari road and had previously come under repeated attacks. Residents said that history was why mobile policemen had been deployed to the community before the latest raid.

Ayilamo has faced repeated attacks, and residents again called for stronger protection after the latest killings. The police command said it would issue more details on the incident.

Sources: Punch, Daily Trust