No fewer than nine persons have been killed following a fresh attack by suspected armed herdsmen on Mbalom community in Gwer-East Local Government Area of Benue State.
The deadly incident reportedly occurred on Saturday evening at a bustling market in Jande Mbatsada village, where the assailants stormed the area and opened fire on unsuspecting residents.
Eyewitness accounts gathered by our correspondent indicate that the attack took place between 5:00 pm and 6:00 pm, causing panic as traders and villagers fled for safety.
Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Gwer-East LGA, Timothy Adi, said nine persons lost their lives, while one other victim sustained critical injuries and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital.
Adi disclosed that security operatives have since been deployed to the area to restore calm, adding that the Benue State Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Enemari, had visited the affected community.
“The situation is now calm, and security presence has been reinforced to prevent further attacks,” the chairman stated.
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Reacting to the development, Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a heinous and barbaric act.
The governor said the killing of innocent citizens was unacceptable and a direct affront to the peace and security of the state, assuring residents that his administration remains committed to protecting lives and property.
The latest incident adds to growing concerns over recurring violent attacks in parts of Benue State, particularly in rural communities, where residents continue to call for improved security measures.
Authorities have yet to announce any arrests in connection with the attack as of the time of filing this report.
