No fewer than fifteen (15) traders have been killed by armed men suspected to be herders in Ogwumogbo and Okpo’okpolo communities of Agatu local government area of Benue State.
A local source told our correspondent on telephone that the victims were returning from Oweto Market in Agatu when gunmen suddenly came out from a nearby bush and opened fire on them, killing 15 on the spot.
A former Vice Chairman of Agatu LG, John Ikwulono who confirmed the attack in a telephone interview with our correspondent, said the assailants ambushed the traders on Saturday evening when they were returning from Oweto Market.
According to Ikwulono, the herders also took the victims’ monies and belongings after killing them before fleeing into the surrounding bushes.
“As I speak to you, some persons are still missing while those who sustained gunshots injuries were taken to an undisclosed hospital in the area for treatment
“Five out of the 15 people were killed between Ogbayi and Ogwumogbo, where there’s a small stream called Abekoko,” he said.
When contacted, Spokesman of the Police Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, said she was yet to be briefed on the incident.
