Governor Alia Reacts As Bandits Kill Four Police Officers, Seven Civilians In Benue

Four police officers and seven civilians were killed after suspected bandits attacked Ayilamo community in Logo Local Government Area of Benue State.

Orchia Aondongu, the police spokesperson in Benue, said the attack happened on Thursday evening after a large group of armed bandits stormed the community.

He said security personnel from the Police Mobile Force (PMF), tactical units and regular police teams confronted the bandits in a gun battle that continued for about seven hours.

“The operatives stood firm in defence of the community and successfully repelled the attack, forcing the criminal elements to retreat into the surrounding forest with heavy casualties in the early hours of 11th September 2026,” the statement reads.

“Regrettably, four police officers paid the supreme price in the course of defending the community. Their bodies were subsequently recovered during search and rescue operations in the surrounding bushes.

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“The corpses of seven civilians were also recovered following the attack and deposited at a mortuary for necessary procedures.”

The police said more tactical officers had since been sent to Ayilamo to strengthen security and support the teams already operating in the area.

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the attack, calling it a serious and unacceptable act of violence against the people of Ayilamo.

In a statement on Friday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor said the incident posed a serious threat to the safety and stability of the state.

Alia said the attack highlighted the continued insecurity affecting vulnerable communities and security personnel in the area.

“The reported killing of four law enforcement officers is particularly painful and underscores the enormous sacrifices being made by security personnel in the line of duty.

“I extend heartfelt condolences to the people of Ayilamo, the families of all the victims, and the entire Logo Local Government community.

‘We mourn with you and assure you that you are not alone in this difficult period,” the governor said.

The governor also expressed sympathy to Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu and Benue Commissioner of Police Cletus Nwadiogbu over the loss of the officers.

Alia further praised the Department of State Services (DSS) for its role in arresting three suspects allegedly linked to the attack.

He specifically commended DSS personnel in Benue and Nasarawa states for a quick and professional operation.

The governor said the arrests could help investigators establish what happened and identify those behind the attack.

“We urge the DSS to intensify its investigation and make the best use of the information obtained from the suspects in its custody,” Alia said.

“Every available lead should be diligently followed to identify and arrest the remaining accomplices, sponsors, collaborators, and other persons connected with the attack. All those found culpable must face the full weight of the law.”

He also assured residents that his administration would continue working with security agencies to improve safety in Ayilamo, Logo and other communities considered vulnerable to attacks across Benue.

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