Gunmen Kill Nine In Fresh Benue Attack

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No fewer than nine people have been killed in a fresh attack by suspected gunmen on the Mbalom community in Gwer-East Local Government Area, Benue State.

The assault, which reportedly occurred in broad daylight on Saturday between 5 pm and 6 pm, has intensified concerns over rising insecurity in parts of the state.

According to reports, the assailants, suspected to be armed herdsmen, stormed a market in Jande Mbatsada village and opened fire on residents. One other victim sustained injuries and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital.

The Chairman of Gwer-East LGA, Timothy Adi, confirmed the incident in a phone conversation with journalists from Makurdi, adding that security operatives have moved into the area to restore calm. The Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Enemari, also visited the community and ordered the deployment of personnel to the affected area.

“The situation is calm now,” Adi said.

Reacting to the development, Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State condemned the attack, describing it as unacceptable and a direct affront to the peace and security of the state. He expressed deep sympathy to the families of the deceased and assured them of government support.

Governor Alia also raised concerns over a pattern of “calculated and selective attacks” in parts of the state, reiterating his administration’s determination to confront all forms of criminality threatening local communities.

He commended the swift response of security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, urging them to intensify operations to apprehend the perpetrators and prevent further attacks.

The governor assured residents of the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, emphasizing measures to strengthen security architecture and improve intelligence gathering. He called on residents to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive of security efforts by providing credible information to aid ongoing operations.