Newsbreak: Terrorists attack Benue, kill scores, kidnap women, children
By Samuel Ogunsona
Terrorists have again invaded Benue State,killing several people after burning down some communities.
The attack was on Friday February 06 at twilight.
Benue is located in the Middle-Belt, home to Tiv, Igede Idoma ethnic groups but has faced ceaseless attacks from terrorists.
The attack took place on Friday afternoon.
The terrorists stormed Anwase Market in Mbaikyor, Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State on Friday.
Sources told Irohinoodua that several women were among those either kidnapped, raped or killed.
Locals told Irohinoodua that the armed men had earlier encamped on a hill from where they came down to the communities with guns and cutlasses
“We were caught unawares. They burnt down the villages and shot many people dead. They were Fulani from what we have seen. They operated for many hours. No security officials came,” Micheal Adjei a farmer in the community told Irohinoodua.
More than one million people are currently in IDPs in Benue, a state that was onced the food basket of the country.
“We are burrying our dead. This has become routine. We are now strangers in our own land” another retired police officer who does not wish to be named told Irohinoodua.
Eyewitness told Irohinodua that the assailants emerged from a nearby mountain and fled with the abducted victims towards the mountainous terrain before security operatives could reach the area.
The market was set ablaze, with stalls and shops destroyed, leaving residents in shock. Many traders fled in different directions to escape the assault
Efforts to reach the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer for comments were unsuccessful, as calls and messages were not returned.
The current status of the abducted women is unknown, and it is unclear if any demands have been made by the attackers.
Benue State government has not yet publicly responded to the attack, and it remains to be seen what measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The local community is likely to be deeply affected by this incident, and the history of attacks in the area suggests a need for increased security measures.
