Four police officers and seven civilians were killed when suspected bandits attacked Ayilamo community in Logo Local Government Area of Benue State, the state police command has confirmed.
The attack occurred at about 6:12pm on Thursday, September 10, 2026.
Orchia Aondongu, spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday.
According to Aondongu, the attackers, who were reportedly armed and operating in large numbers, invaded the community before police operatives responded.
The security team comprised officers from the Police Mobile Force (PMF), tactical units and conventional police formations.
Aondongu said the ensuing gun battle lasted seven hours, with the police eventually forcing the attackers to retreat into the surrounding forest in the early hours of Friday.
“Regrettably, four police officers paid the supreme price in the course of defending the community,” the statement said.
The bodies of the officers were recovered during search and rescue operations in nearby bushes.
Seven civilians were also found dead following the attack, with their bodies deposited at a mortuary for necessary procedures.
The police command said additional tactical teams had been deployed to Ayilamo to reinforce security and prevent further attacks.
Governor Alia Condemns Attack
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the attack, describing it as a serious threat to the security and stability of the state.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, on Friday, the governor expressed condolences to the victims’ families and the people of Ayilamo and Logo LGA.
Alia said the killing of four police officers highlighted the risks security personnel face while protecting communities.
He also commiserated with Tunji Disu, Inspector-General of Police, and Cletus Nwadiogbu, Commissioner of Police in Benue State, over the loss of the officers.
The governor commended the Department of State Services (DSS) for arresting three suspects allegedly linked to the attack.
He said the arrests, reportedly carried out by DSS personnel in Benue and Nasarawa states, could help investigators establish what happened and identify those responsible.
Alia urged the DSS to intensify its investigation and pursue all leads to uncover the remaining suspects, sponsors and collaborators.
“All those found culpable must face the full weight of the law,” he said.
The governor assured residents that his administration would continue working with security agencies to improve protection in Ayilamo, Logo and other communities facing insecurity across the state.
