At least four officers of the 12 Police Mobile Force unit lost their lives in a deadly ambush by suspected armed herders in Udei, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, on Sunday, June 30.
The officers were reportedly attacked while attempting to counter simultaneous assaults on several villages, including Daudu, Tse Ashongu, and Tse Asha. The attackers, believed to be targeting the Ortese Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, were met with strong resistance from security forces…..CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>
Eyewitnesses noted that the armed group began firing indiscriminately to instill fear among locals as they advanced toward Ortese camp. However, a joint team of military and security personnel confronted them, forcing the attackers to retreat toward Udei town.
There, the assailants reengaged with law enforcement, resulting in a deadly shootout that claimed the lives of four mobile officers. The attackers reportedly seized their weapons before fleeing. Two other officers were injured during the clash and are receiving treatment at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital in Makurdi.
The fallen officers have been identified as Inspector Samuel Bisalla, Inspector Emmanuel Bitrus, Inspector John Sunday, and Inspector Kenneth Gabriel.
The incident follows closely on the heels of another deadly attack in Yelewata, where over 150 lives were lost just over two weeks ago. Authorities fear the recent violence signals a renewed escalation of hostilities in the region.
In response, tactical reinforcements and an Armoured Personnel Carrier have been deployed to Udei and Daudu to stabilize the situation. While local officials have confirmed the incident, the state police command has yet to issue an official statement.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>