Suspected armed herders kill four in Benue attack

Abaushwa community in Benue State has been targeted in a fresh attack by suspected armed herders, resulting in the deaths of four people and injuries to several others. The assault, which took place on Monday, saw assailants invade the community around midnight, reportedly killing residents as they slept.

Local sources described the attackers forcing open doors and murdering individuals inside their homes. Initially, three people were reported dead, with others sustaining injuries. One of the injured later died at the General Hospital in Gbajimba, bringing the total death toll to four. Residents stated that the attack occurred without any apparent provocation.

Dr. Frank Kyungun, a former Executive Secretary of the Benue State Teaching Service Board who is from the community, condemned the incident as an unprovoked assault by armed herders. He confirmed the fatalities and injuries, noting that those wounded were receiving medical attention. He urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with ongoing police investigations.

The Chairman of Guma Local Government Area, Morris Orwough, also condemned the attack, stating that security personnel have been deployed to Abaushwa to restore peace and protect lives and property. He appealed to residents to cooperate with security agencies and provide information to aid in tackling insecurity. The Benue State Police Command confirmed the attack and the number of fatalities, assuring that an investigation is active and efforts are underway to arrest those responsible.