A fresh attack by suspected armed herdsmen has claimed the lives of at least six people in Tse Ugema Chul, Mbakesa community, Ugbaam, located in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
Several residents sustained injuries, while many others are unaccounted for following the violent raid.
According to reports, the assailants stormed the village around 7 p.m. on Saturday, firing gunshots indiscriminately and looting properties.
In a bid to defend their community, local youths mobilized and confronted the attackers with sticks and stones, forcing them towards a nearby stream known as Kafe. Unbeknownst to them, another group of armed men lay in wait, setting up an ambush.
A community source revealed that as the youths approached the stream, over 50 heavily armed men emerged from hiding, wielding guns, machetes, and other dangerous weapons.
The outnumbered defenders were overwhelmed, resulting in multiple casualties.
After overpowering the resistance, the attackers proceeded to ransack farms, steal agricultural produce, and destroy properties.
So far, six bodies have been recovered, while search efforts continue for those still missing.
Among the victims was Michael Adeke, who had recently voiced concerns on social media about ongoing attacks in the area, urging locals to protect themselves.
Reacting to the incident, Ukum LGA Chairman, Jonathan Modi, who spoke from Zaki Biam, expressed deep sorrow, stating, “I am in pain over what has happened and cannot speak now.”
Attempts to obtain a statement from the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Catherine Anene, were unsuccessful.
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