Desperation seems to be the driving force behind the recent violent incursion into Ayati community in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State by unnamed bandits, according to the Benue Police Command.
Accounts reveal that chaos erupted in Ayati village on August 8, 2024, around 4:30 pm, disrupting the peaceful routine of the residents as a sizable group of armed bandits unleashed a hail of bullets on the unsuspecting community members.
This information was relayed in a statement issued on Friday by SP Catherine Anene, the spokesperson of the Benue Police Command.
The swift response of local law enforcement officers managed to fend off the attackers, but unfortunately, the attack left 15 individuals with gunshot wounds, all of whom succumbed to their injuries upon arrival at the hospital.
“Tragically, two of the responding police officers also lost their lives in the line of duty during the confrontational episode,” Anene added.
She further mentioned that the deceased bodies have been taken to the General Hospital Ukum, and an ongoing investigation is diligently being conducted.
The Commissioner of Police, Hassan Yabanet, visited Ayati to personally evaluate the situation first-hand and extend condolences to the grieving families.
Reaffirming his dedication to combating criminal elements in the region, Yabanet praised the quick response of his officers and motivated them to persist in their efforts, emphasizing that additional reinforcements have been dispatched to the area to enhance security coverage and engagement with the bandits,” Anene elaborated.