At least six people have been killed in a fresh attack by suspected armed herdsmen on Tse Ugema Chul, Mbakesa community in Ugbaam, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
The attack occurred on Saturday night, forcing many residents to flee their homes.
A local source, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that seven bodies had been recovered while several others remained missing.
The violence reportedly erupted after local youths attempted to drive away cattle that had strayed into their farmlands, destroying their crops.
The source stated, “While the youths were going after the cattle, unknown gunmen who laid ambush opened fire and killed some of the youths. Six bodies have been recovered.
“After killing the youths, they retreated and started looting the people’s farm produce and destroying their property.
“One of those killed in the attack was one Michael Adeke, who had three days ago posted on his Facebook page about the recurrent attacks in the area by suspected armed herdsmen and the need for the people to defend themselves.”
Confirming the attack, the Chairman of Ukum LGA, Jonathan Modi, said he was in Zaki Biam and was too distraught to speak further.
He stated, “I am in Zaki Biam right now and in pains about what happened and I cannot speak now.”
Meanwhile, the Benue State Police Command spokesperson, CSP Catherine Anene, said she had not yet been briefed on the incident.
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