Three feared dead as armed Herdsmen attack Mbasombo Community in Benue

No fewer than three persons have been confirmed dead following a renewed overnight attack by suspected armed herdsmen on Mbasombo community in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State.

The attack, which happened less than 10 minutes from Makurdi, the state capital, reportedly started around 11 p.m. on Wednesday night and lasted for over an hour. The incident left several residents injured, many others missing, and numerous houses burnt.

One of the survivors, Atumegh Ahemga, a petty trader in the area, narrated the terrifying experience. He said, “We had gone to bed when loud gunshots rang out from different directions. Nobody knew what was going on at first.”

He explained that panic broke out as people ran in all directions while the herdsmen shot randomly and set houses on fire. “Whoever they caught while running was either killed or badly injured. It was a terrifying scene. A lot of people were lucky to escape to nearby villages, but about three people were killed, many were injured, and many homes were destroyed,” he said.

Ahemga stressed that the attack was unprovoked and no one could understand why the community was targeted. He also lamented the absence of security personnel throughout the duration of the attack. “It’s heartbreaking. People have lost loved ones, and many are still missing. It’s been a horrific experience,” he added.

Gwer East Local Government Chairman, Timothy Adi, confirmed the incident, stating that three deaths had been verified so far, and that peace had been restored in the area.

The Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, also confirmed the attack and assured that security had been strengthened in the affected community.