Several killed as suspected herdsmen invade Benue communities

Suspected heavily armed herdsmen have been alleged to kill several people in an ongoing new attack against communities in Mbaterem, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.

The assailants, believed to be on motorbikes, raided the communities of Ayaba, Ukpen, Bom, Aboajio and Yina in the early hours of Sunday morning around 5am.

A resident, Emmanuel Oryiman Mbatsavdue, said four people had so far been confirmed dead in Aboajio alone.

He added that residents were still searching for family members who remained missing following the attack.

He added that the casualty figure could rise as the search continued.

The Executive Chairman of Ukum LGA, Hon. Jonathan Modi, confirmed that an attack occurred but said the exact number of casualties was yet to be established.

He said security operatives were still in the bush assessing the situation.

When contacted, the spokesman of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Orchia Aondogwu, confirmed that there was an attack in Ukum Local Government Area.

He said more details would be communicated as soon as they became available.