The Benue State Police Command has launched a clearance operation in Efeyi community, Ugboju, Otukpo Local Government Area, following a deadly bandit attack that k!lled 13 people and resulted in the theft of 20 cattle. 

The command confirmed the casualty figure in a statement issued on Wednesday by its spokesperson, DSP Orchia Aondongu. While some residents initially reported 15 deaths from the early Tuesday morning assault, police preliminary investigations verified 13 fatalities. 

According to the police, the armed bandits invaded the community primarily to rustle cattle belonging to a resident identified as Peter Ambulus. As they fled with the animals, the attackers opened fire on farmers they encountered in the bush. 

In response, the Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, led tactical teams in a coordinated clearance operation. The operatives came under attack during the mission but successfully repelled the assailants. 

At the end of the operation, two suspected bandits were neutralized, and security forces recovered one AK-47 rifle along with 15 rounds of ammunition. The operation remains ongoing, with teams combing nearby forests and surrounding communities in search of fleeing suspects and the stolen cattle. 

The police condemned the attack and assured residents of intensified efforts to restore peace and bolster security in the affected area and neighboring communities.

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