7 Killed In Fresh Attack On Benue Community

At least seven people have been killed by suspected armed invaders at Channel One, a border settlement in Ukemberagya/Tswarev Council Ward of Logo Local Government Area (LGA), Benue State.

Witnesses said several others were critically injured in what they described as a coordinated attack in the early hours of Sunday.

They said the attackers, who stormed the community around 1 a.m. on motorcycles and armed with weapons, opened fire on residents, causing panic in the rural area as many fled for their lives.

A community leader in Logo, Chief Joseph Anawah, said the victims were identified as Akor Gwakyaa, Msooter Gwakyaa, Aondoungwa Michael, Vershima Michael, Terna Michael, Msughter Terzungwe, and one other whose name is yet to be confirmed.

Anawah said several others sustained severe injuries and were taken to medical facilities in Anyiin, while at least seven persons in critical condition were referred to Ugba, the headquarters of Logo LGA, for urgent treatment.

A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, alleged that the attackers may be linked to a camp in Shaor, a previously deserted village in Logo LGA that has been mentioned in past security reports.

The resident also alleged that the latest attack, which occurred along the Arufu–Wukari road axis, has triggered fresh fear across neighbouring communities, with some residents fleeing their homes over concerns of further violence.

Chairman of Logo LGA, Clement Kav, confirmed the incident to journalists in Makurdi, saying, “They killed seven persons and injured four others.

“And, as you are aware, what they do is come, attack, and retreat to where they came from. They carried out the attack late on Saturday night into Sunday.”

“I have briefed the Commissioner of Police and the Adviser on Homeland Security on the development,” he added.

Contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer for Benue Command, Udeme Edet, said she was not yet aware of the incident. (Daily trust)