By Chiangi Avese, Makurdi
The new Army Commander deployed to restore peace in Tombo Ward, Logo Local Government Area of Benue State, Brig. Gen. J.A. Hassan, has vowed that the military will no longer tolerate the brutal killing of innocent residents in the area.
Hassan’s arrival in Ayilamo on Sunday coincided with the killing of two persons who were reportedly ambushed and gruesomely murdered by suspected bandits along the Akwana-Ayilamo Road.
The incident occurred just hours before the commander arrived to take charge of the newly established battalion operating from a temporary mobile barracks in Ayilamo.
The killing was among several deadly attacks recorded in the area this year. The battalion was established following persistent attacks by bandits, who have reportedly killed more than 30 mobile policemen and over 100 civilians in recent times.
Addressing traumatised residents at Ayilamo Market Square, Hassan vowed to deal decisively with criminal elements terrorising the community.
He assured the residents that the Army would not tolerate further attacks on innocent people and pledged to work towards ending the violence and restoring peace to the area.
Earlier, the Chairman of Logo Local Government Council, Hon. Clement Kav, received the commander and accompanied him to Ayilamo, where he was shown the proposed temporary site for the battalion.
The event attracted traditional rulers, politicians, religious leaders and other community stakeholders.
Residents trooped out to welcome Hassan, singing and dancing as they expressed hope that his deployment would bring lasting peace to Ayilamo and its surrounding communities.
