22 mobile policemen killed in North Central community

By Philippine Duru

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At least 22 Mobile Police (Mopol) officers have been killed at different times and locations in Ayilamo community, Tombo Ward, Logo Local Government Area of Benue State, amid renewed attacks by armed bandits.

The latest attack, which occurred on September 10, 2026, reportedly claimed the lives of four Mobile Police officers and several residents, further deepening fears over the security situation in the farming community.

Ayilamo, located along the Abinsi-Tyulen-Anyiin-Wukari road, has come under repeated attacks by armed groups, according to residents.

A resident, Tyolumun Ugande, said more than 200 armed bandits reportedly invaded the community from Alufu Road in neighbouring Taraba State, shooting at residents and setting houses ablaze.

He said a detachment of Mobile Police officers deployed to the community confronted the attackers, who were reportedly armed with sophisticated weapons.

According to Ugande, after several hours of exchange of gunfire, the attackers retreated.

However, four Mobile Police officers were later found dead in the bush on Friday morning.

“We also discovered eight bodies of residents of Ayilamo who were killed by the bandits,” he said.

The Divisional Police Officer in Ayilamo confirmed the attack and the casualties, adding that the police had requested reinforcement.

Another resident, James Udough, said the latest incident was the second time in one month that Mobile Police officers deployed to Ayilamo had been killed.

“This is the second time in one month that Mobile Police men deployed to Ayilamo are killed,” he said.

“The bandits have been trying to set the whole Ayilamo ablaze for more than two years now. We call on the Benue and Federal Governments to help secure our land and lives.”

The latest attack reportedly claimed the lives of community elders, residents, security personnel and two children.

Among those identified as victims were Baba Nyikyaa Mbanengen Agia, Mkohol Ahowe, Agah Saanmoyol, popularly known as Dodo, Baba Mlahaga Kpurkpur, Geoffrey Aondoakaa Gaku, also known as Bala, and two children.

The four Mobile Police officers identified were ASP Paul Ina, Inspector Mohammed Yusuf, Inspector Oge Ikechukwu and Inspector Edeh Andrew, all said to be officers of Mopol 32, Ebonyi.

The incident has renewed concerns over the safety of both civilians and security personnel deployed to the troubled community.

According to Umishi Terungwa, Security Secretary of Tombo Council Ward, the death toll among Mobile Police officers killed in attacks around Ayilamo has now risen to 22 at different times and locations.

He described the situation as a serious security challenge requiring urgent intervention by the state and Federal Governments.

Residents also expressed concern that the persistent attacks may be linked to reports of substantial mineral deposits in and around Ayilamo.

The community has called for urgent deployment of additional security personnel, protection of residents and measures to prevent further attacks on the farming settlement.

The latest killings have left Ayilamo in mourning while residents continue to appeal for sustained security operations to restore peace and enable them to return safely to their farms and homes.