Four mobile policemen and seven civilians have been killed in a renewed attack on Ayilamo community in Logo Local Government Area of Benue State.

The attack reportedly occurred on Thursday when suspected armed bandits invaded the community in large numbers.

The police said officers from the Mobile Police Force, tactical teams and conventional units engaged the attackers in a seven-hour operation, eventually forcing them to retreat into the surrounding forest.

Four police officers were killed during the operation, while the bodies of seven civilians were also recovered and taken to a mortuary.

The police command says additional tactical teams have been deployed to the area to strengthen security and support ongoing operations.

Residents have been urged to remain calm and vigilant while cooperating with security agencies by providing information that could assist the operation.

A community resident, however, claimed that about 200 suspected armed herders invaded the area, shooting and burning houses. The community also reported additional civilian casualties.