Benue: Four killed in suspected herdsmen ambush on Agatu community

Tragedy has once again befallen the Aila community in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, as suspected herdsmen launched a brutal ambush on Sunday morning. The attack, which occurred as villagers were heading to church, resulted in the deaths of at least four people and left several others injured. This heinous act has plunged the community into a state of panic and confusion, with residents desperately searching for those still missing amid fears the death toll could rise.

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They mindlessly attacked the community today around 7am and ambushed people who were said to be on their way to church.

Eyewitnesses described the attackers storming the area unexpectedly and opening fire on unsuspecting residents, causing chaos as people fled in all directions. The attackers reportedly fled into nearby bushes after the assault. The Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Mr. Melvin Ejeh, confirmed the incident, characterizing it as a calculated ambush along the Aila–Odugbeho road. He noted that while improved security measures have made it difficult for attackers to overrun communities, they have resorted to hit-and-run tactics.

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It was an ambush by suspected armed herdsmen along the Aila–Odugbeho road.

Security operatives, including police and local vigilantes, have launched clearance operations in the surrounding forests to track down the perpetrators and restore calm. The Police Public Relations Officer was unavailable for comment at the time of reporting. This incident highlights the persistent security challenges in the region, where communities continue to suffer from such violent attacks.

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Because of the robust security strategies we have put in place, it is now difficult to attack and overrun any community in Agatu.