5 Killed, Many Missing In Benue Attack

About five people have been reportedly killed while several others were kidnapped in a fresh attack by terrorists on the Ortese community along the Igyungu Aze–Yogbo road in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.

The attack, which occurred on Tuesday, left several residents injured, while many others were reportedly abducted and taken to unknown locations.

Locals said the death toll could rise, as several residents remain missing and youths in the area are conducting search operations in the surrounding bushes.

Those whose bodies have so far been recovered were identified as Solo Uchi from Tse Hagher, who was killed on his farm; Alhaji Iorlaha from Orogbo; and Tersoo Uker from Tse Uker, all communities in Guma LGA. Two other bodies were said to have been recovered later in nearby bushes.

A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity for security reasons, described the incident as terrifying.

“What we have seen so far is frightening,” the source said. “They attacked us on Tuesday, just two days after a similar attack on Daudu, where two people were killed. So far, five bodies have been recovered, but we believe more may still be found because many people are unaccounted for.”

Residents alleged that the terrorists barricaded the Ortese–Yogbo road, ambushing victims both on the highway and in nearby bushes as people attempted to flee.

“They blocked the road completely and started shooting,” a youth leader in the area said. “Some people were killed instantly, while others ran into the bushes where they were chased.”

Several residents were reportedly captured alive and taken away, raising fears over their safety, according to online reports.

The attack has thrown Ortese into panic, forcing many residents to flee their homes.

“Our people are no longer safe here,” another resident said. “Families are running because we do not know when the attackers will return.”

Efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer in Benue State, Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful.