At least four persons, including a clergyman, have reportedly been killed in a fresh attack by suspected armed herders on Abeda Shitile community in Gaambe-Tiev Ward, Logo Local Government Area of Benue State.
Eight others were also reportedly injured in the attack, which occurred on Tuesday.
A resident of the community, who identified himself simply as Andy, said the attackers invaded the area at about 5pm, when traders and other residents were preparing to leave the market.
He said, “The attack, suspected to have been carried out by armed herders, started around 5pm when traders and other residents were preparing to leave the market. Suddenly, we heard heavy gunshots, and people began running in different directions to escape.
“The gunmen operated for more than two hours, leaving residents scampering for safety as sporadic gunshots echoed across the community.”
He described the incident as terrifying, adding that the attackers moved from one location to another, shooting indiscriminately.
“Four persons were confirmed dead in the attack. They were identified as Msoo Chan, Pastor Terungwa Tyonungo, Suurshater Iornumbe and Dodo Shingir,” he added.
The resident said the bodies of the deceased had been recovered and deposited at a morgue in the area, while the injured victims were receiving treatment at a health facility.
He identified the injured persons as Kumater Awua, Miracle Gangera, Tsetim Terungwa, Iortyom Helen, Seember Aondongu, Kofi Aondosoo, Chuku Okoro and Orker Iortyom.
However, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Peter Aondongu, gave a different casualty figure, confirming that three persons were killed and two others injured.
He said, “Five people were injured during the attack, but when they were being taken to hospital, three of them died while the two others are receiving treatment at the hospital.”