Tragic Incident In Benue: Gunmen Claim 27 Lives, Including Mourners, And Set Market Ablaze

Bloody Attack in Benue: Gunmen Kill 27, Injure Many, and Set Market Ablaze

A horrifying incident unfolded in Adogo Ugbaam, Akpuuna, and Diom communities in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, where an unknown armed gang attacked and claimed the lives of at least 27 people. The assailants also left several individuals with severe injuries, causing distress and panic within the affected communities.

The first attack occurred on Friday night during a funeral in Adogo Ugbaam community, where three mourners were brutally killed. The violence escalated on Saturday morning around 11 a.m. when the armed gang invaded Akpuuna and Diom communities, resulting in the tragic deaths of 24 more individuals.

Eyewitnesses revealed that the armed men, whose motives remain unknown, arrived on motorcycles and unleashed terror on the villages. The assailants opened fire at the crowded local market and anyone they encountered, showing no mercy as they carried out their ruthless attacks.

The shocking incident sent shockwaves through the community, causing people to flee in fear for their lives. Amidst the chaos, the armed gang set fire to people’s properties before fleeing the scene.

As the news of the devastating attack spread, locals embarked on a search for missing individuals, anticipating that the number of casualties may rise. The affected communities are now grappling with the aftermath of the assault, with people fleeing and mourning the loss of their loved ones.

The Chairman of Ukum Local Government Area, Mr. Kartyo Tyoumbur, confirmed the tragic event and reported that 24 bodies had been recovered from the two attacked villages. He also mentioned that the armed gang encountered the military in the Tine-Nune community along the Zaki Biam-Wukari Road, resulting in a confrontation where some of the assailants may have been neutralized.

The motive behind the attack remains unknown, leaving the community in shock and searching for answers. The Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Catherine Anene, confirmed the incident and stated that eight corpses had been recovered at the scene. Anene added that the police, in collaboration with other security agencies, swiftly responded to the situation and repelled the attackers.

The investigation into the tragic incident is ongoing, with efforts focused on bringing the culprits to justice and restoring peace to the affected communities. The attack has not only claimed innocent lives but has also deeply scarred the hearts of the people of Benue State.