At least three people have been confirmed dead following a fresh attack by armed herdsmen on Mbasombo community in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State.
The incident occurred late Wednesday night, around 11 p.m., and continued for over an hour. Mbasombo, located less than 10 minutes from the state capital Makurdi, was left reeling from the assault, which also resulted in several injuries, missing persons, and homes set ablaze.
A local resident and trader, Atumegh Ahemga, described the scene as chaotic and terrifying.
“We had gone to bed when we started hearing gunshots from every direction.
People fled in panic while the attackers burned down houses and shot at those trying to escape,” he said. “Many managed to run to nearby villages, but at least three people were killed.
Others are injured, and many homes were destroyed.”
Ahemga added that the attack appeared unprovoked, and no one could explain why the herdsmen targeted the community.
He also expressed concern over the delayed response from security agencies, saying help did not arrive during the attack.
Gwer East Local Government Chairman, Timothy Adi, confirmed the incident and the number of casualties, adding that the area was now calm.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, also confirmed the attack and said security presence in the area had been increased to prevent further violence.
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