JUST IN: Gunmen Kill At Least 30 People In Fresh Attacks In Benue

At least 30 individuals were reportedly killed in various attacks that occurred within two of the Local Government Areas of Benue State.

Naija News learnt that numerous rural areas in Kastina-Ala and Logo LGAs were attacked on Sunday and during the early hours of Monday.

According to Daily Trust, local residents reported that ten bodies were recovered in Kastina-Ala, while 20 were found in the Logo area, resulting in a total of 30 fatalities.

In response to the incident, Chief Joseph Anawah, a community leader in Logo, stated that an assault occurred on the Azege settlement and the surrounding areas of Tombo Council Ward on Sunday, November 24, 2024, around 7 a.m.

It was gathered that armed individuals carried out the attacks, estimated to be over 300 and believed to be militia from outside Nigeria.

He noted that the invasion took place in the morning, and the assailants were clearly visible to the local population. The security forces present were unable to fend them off due to their overwhelming numbers and advanced weaponry.

It was only after the arrival of a military aircraft that the attackers were compelled to retreat.

Anawah noted that more than 20 bodies have been discovered, and efforts to locate additional missing persons are ongoing.

Justine Shaku, the Council Chairman of Kastina-Ala LGA, also informed journalists in Makurdi that numerous individuals were killed in his jurisdiction, and significant property was destroyed.

He said: “Yes, another incident of attack by herder marauders was reported to have taken place this morning (Monday), the 25th day of November 2024, at about 2 am. The Information is that many of them, heavily armed, stormed Adabo village and Tse Gwebe settlement in Utange Council Ward of Shitile in Katsina-Ala LGA.

“From reports, they have killed many people, a number yet unknown, destroyed valuable properties and looted a lot of household items and left uninterruptedly. Note that Benue State is underserved by security threats from herder-armed bandits. The level of destruction and scores killed will be forwarded to you in due course, please.”

His Logo LGA counterpart, Clement Kav, alleged that the attackers claimed ownership of his domain, saying that the Tombo land belonged to them.

“They attacked the Tombo council ward and killed 17 people and injured 37. The Governor has already mobilised more security to the area, and peace has been restored. No case of missing persons for now,” he said.

Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Catherine Anene confirmed the incident, saying however that five bodies were recovered.

Anene said, “Logo attack confirm. Five bodies recovered.”