Three Killed, Many Injured, Houses Set Ablaze as Armed Herdsmen Launch Midnight Attack on Benue Community Near Makurdi
At least three people have been confirmed dead following a renewed overnight attack by suspected armed herdsmen on Mbasombo community in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State.
The assault, which occurred around 11 p.m. on Wednesday, lasted for over an hour and left scores injured, several others missing, and many houses set ablaze. Mbasombo is located less than a 10-minute drive from Makurdi, the Benue State capital.
A survivor, Atumegh Ahemga, a petty trader in the area, recounted the chaos:
“We had already gone to bed when loud gunshots erupted from different directions. People ran for their lives as the attackers, who were herdsmen, stormed the community shooting and setting houses on fire. They shot at fleeing residents, and anyone caught was either killed or seriously injured. It was terrifying. Many managed to escape to nearby villages, but sadly, at least three people were killed, several were injured, and houses were burnt down.”
He described the attack as unprovoked, adding that there was no response from security personnel throughout the period the violence lasted.
Confirming the incident, Chairman of Gwer East Local Government, Timothy Adi, said three deaths had been recorded and that normalcy had returned to the area.
Also speaking, Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, confirmed the attack and noted that security had been reinforced in the community.
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