Fresh suspected bandits attacks in Benue State has reportedly claimed the lives of 14 persons, including a mobile police officer.
Daily Intel Newspaper gathered that the attacks, which occurred between Friday and Sunday, affected communities in Apa and Otukpo Local Government Areas, forcing many residents to flee their homes in search of safety.
According to local sources, the attackers first struck Ikobi and Adija communities in Apa LGA on Friday, killing three people.
By Sunday evening, the violence escalated in Edikwu-Ankpali, where at least 10 persons were reportedly killed. A resident, who identified himself simply as Ameh, said several others remain missing as search efforts continue.
According to him, the attackers stormed the community and opened fire indiscriminately, causing panic as residents fled. He added that youths recovered 10 bodies on Monday morning, while more victims may still be unaccounted for.
The attacks have heightened fear and uncertainty in the affected communities, with many residents abandoning their homes over concerns of further violence.
In a related incident, a mobile police officer was killed on Saturday in Upu community, Otukpo LGA, during a gun battle between security operatives and suspected herders.
Confirming the incidents, Chairman of Apa LGA, Adam Ochega, said nine persons were killed in Edikwu-Ankpali, while one person each was killed in Ikobi and Adija.
Similarly, Otukpo LGA Chairman, Maxwell Ogiri, confirmed the killing of the police officer, noting that he died while helping to repel the attackers. He added that additional security personnel have since been deployed to the area.
