JUST-IN : 13 Farmers Killed, 20 Cattle Stolen In Benue Rustling Attack

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the killing of 13 farmers during a deadly cattle rustling attack in Efeyi Ugboju Community, Otukpo Local Government Area, revealing that armed bandits also rustled 20 cattle before opening fire on farmers fleeing the scene.

The Command, which condemned the attack, said the incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, July 28, 2026, when armed bandits invaded the community with the primary aim of stealing cattle belonging to a resident, Peter Ambulus.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Orchia Peter Aondongu, the police said a distress call was received reporting the invasion, prompting the immediate deployment of operatives to the area.

According to the statement, preliminary investigations showed that the attackers successfully rustled 20 cattle before opening fire on farmers they encountered while escaping through the bush.

“Regrettably, thirteen (13) persons lost their lives during the attack, while the hoodlums successfully rustled twenty (20) cattle,” the statement said.

Following the attack, the Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Cletus Nwadiogbu, visited the affected community for an on-the-spot assessment and immediately led coordinated clearance operations with tactical teams.

The police said the operation came under ambush by suspected members of the cattle rustling syndicate, resulting in a fierce gun battle.

“At the end of the operation, two (2) of the suspected bandits were neutralised, while one (1) AK-47 rifle and fifteen (15) rounds of ammunition were recovered,” the statement added.

The Command said the operation is ongoing, with tactical teams combing surrounding forests and neighbouring communities to apprehend fleeing suspects, recover the stolen cattle, and bring all those connected with the attack to justice.

Commissioner Nwadiogbu condemned the killings, describing the attack as heinous, and extended his condolences to the families of the victims.

He also directed tactical and operational commanders to sustain the ongoing operation until every member of the criminal gang is arrested.

The Benue State Police Command reassured residents that every necessary measure is being taken to restore normalcy and strengthen security in the affected community and surrounding areas.

It urged members of the public to remain calm, stay security conscious, and continue to provide timely and credible information to assist the ongoing operation.