The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the death of 17 people following separate attacks by suspected armed herders on communities in Logo and Ukum Local Government Areas of Benue State.
According to a statement issued on Friday by the Benue State Police Command spokesperson, SP Catherine Anene, the violence began on Thursday night when a large group of armed militia invaded the Sankera axis, targeting Gbagir in Ukum LGA and parts of Katsina-Ala in Logo LGA.
“On 17/4/2025 at about 2100hrs, information was received that a large number of suspected militia had invaded Sankera axis of Benue State with intention to attack communities around Gbagir,” Anene stated.
She said the Commissioner of Police, CP Steve H. Yabanet, immediately deployed tactical teams to reinforce existing officers in the area. Despite efforts to repel the attackers, five people were found shot in Gbagir and later confirmed dead at a hospital.
Twelve additional victims were discovered in Logo LGA, bringing the total number of fatalities to 17. Anene noted that security operatives were still pursuing the attackers, who fled toward forested areas near Taraba State.
The command warned against the spread of misinformation on social media and assured residents of the police’s continued commitment to restoring peace in the region.
