Again, unknown gunmen attack Benue community, kill 16, raze over 50 houses

Suspected armed herdsmen on Thursday evening, attacked Wandor, Mbaikyor community in the Mbalom Council Ward of Gwer East Local Government Area, LGA of Benue State, killing a retired army officer, and 15 others.

The invaders also razed over 50 houses, huts, farmlands and food barns in 11 settlements in the attack.

The attack came about six years after a similar attack by armed herdsmen on St. Ignatius Catholic Church, Ukpor Parish, Mbalom Gwer East LGA, which claimed the lives of two Catholic priests and 17 parishioners.

A survivor of the attack who spoke on conditions of anonymity said the well-armed marauders numbering about 40 stormed the community at about 7pm and opened fire on the locals who were taken unawares.

The Caretaker Chairman of Gwer East LGA, Mrs Comfort Agbo while confirming the development said, “at the moment there is relative peace in the Wandor community. 16 bodies have so far been recovered. Two were injured and are receiving treatment.

“Those who attacked and killed my people are suspected armed herdsmen. The security operatives are currently moving the bodies to the mortuary.”

The Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent, SP, Catherine Anene who confirmed the development said the Police Commissioner was on his way to the scene of the attack for an assessment.

Meanwhile, the State Deputy Governor, Sam Ode was said to have also led a delegation to the community.