Fresh attacks rock Benue’s Sankera axis; one killed
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Fresh attacks in Benue State's Sankera axis have left one person dead and several injured, heightening fears among residents.
- Armed herders and local bandits are identified as the assailants who launched coordinated attacks on multiple settlements over three days.
- Residents express growing worry over worsening insecurity on key roads, urging security forces to intervene.
Communities in Benue State's Sankera axis are living in fear following a renewed wave of violent attacks that have claimed at least one life and left others injured. Armed herders and local bandits are reportedly behind the coordinated assaults on several settlements over the past three days, according to community leader Mr. James Andoaver.
Attacks have targeted areas including Tse-Abali (Abari) Shor and Tongov, with residents reporting incidents of killings and severe injuries. Mr. Utsenda Aber was allegedly killed in Tse-Abali Shor, while his wife sustained machete injuries. Another community, Tse-Erukaa, also came under attack, though no casualties were reported there.
Reports from communities across Ukum and Katsina-Ala indicated a renewed wave of violent attacks. Residents are living in fear as armed groups continue to strike communities and major roads in the Sankera axis.
The recent violence follows a string of assaults, including an attack on security personnel and a farmer. Residents are increasingly concerned about the deteriorating security situation on major roads, particularly during evenings and market days. Key routes like Zaki-Biam-Sankera-Chito Road and Kyado-Atsaam-Azabiam Road are reportedly affected.
Community leaders are urging vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious activities to security agencies. They emphasize that life has become unbearable due to the persistent activities of armed groups and call for immediate intervention to curb the escalating insecurity.
Life had become unbearable for the people due to the activities of armed men in and around communities on that axis, urging security personnel to intervene to check the ugly development.
Originally published by Vanguard. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.