By Paul Aondoakaa 

Governor Hyacinth Alia has confirmed that four police officers and several civilians were killed in an attack on Ayilamo community in Logo Local Government Area, while the DSS has arrested three suspects allegedly linked to the incident.

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has condemned the attack on Ayilamo community in Logo Local Government Area, describing the incident as a serious threat to residents and security personnel in the area.

According to a statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the attack resulted in the deaths of four police officers and several civilians.

Governor Alia described the incident as a “despicable act” and expressed concern over what he characterised as continued attacks on vulnerable communities and security personnel in parts of the state.

“This despicable act is an attack on the peace-loving people of Ayilamo and a grave threat to the security and stability of Benue State,” Alia said.

The governor particularly mourned the four police officers killed in the attack, describing their deaths as a painful reminder of the risks faced by security personnel while carrying out their duties.

He extended condolences to the families of the victims, residents of Ayilamo and the wider Logo Local Government community. He also commiserated with the Inspector-General of Police and the Commissioner of Police in Benue State.

DSS arrests three suspects
Governor Alia also disclosed that personnel of the Department of State Services (DSS) in Benue and Nasarawa States had arrested three suspects allegedly connected to the Ayilamo attack.

The governor commended the DSS for what he described as a prompt and professional operation, saying the arrests could help investigators establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.

However, the suspects remain alleged to be connected to the attack, and their culpability has not been established by a court.

Alia urged the DSS to intensify its investigation and pursue other leads that could identify additional suspects, including alleged accomplices, collaborators or sponsors.

“Every available lead should be diligently followed to identify and arrest the remaining accomplices, sponsors, collaborators, and other persons connected with the attack,” he said.

The governor assured residents that his administration would continue working with security agencies to strengthen security around Ayilamo, Logo and other communities considered vulnerable to attacks.
He also said the state government would support efforts aimed at preventing further attacks, protecting residents, restoring peace and assisting affected communities.

Alia appealed to residents of Ayilamo and neighbouring communities to remain calm and vigilant while investigations continue.

He urged residents with credible information to share it with security agencies while avoiding actions that could increase tension or interfere with the investigation.

The governor's statement does not provide further details about the identities of the victims, the exact circumstances of the attack, the identities of the three arrested suspects, or the specific evidence linking them to the incident.

Further information from the security agencies will be important in establishing the full circumstances surrounding the attack.

Benue Info-pedia will continue to track developments concerning the investigation and security situation in Ayilamo and Logo Local Government Area.