At least four people were killed and one was injured in a series of attacks by suspected armed bandits in Benue State on Thursday, authorities confirmed.
The incidents occurred across Buruku, Okokolo, and Naka Local Government Areas (LGAs), heightening concerns about the rising insecurity in the region.
In Mbakura Mbagen village, Buruku LGA, five gunmen reportedly stormed the community around 3:30 a.m., killing John Kunde and Sughter Orbunde, both members of the state’s Civil Protection Guards.
The assailants also abducted Aondowase Ager and seized a Bajaj motorcycle belonging to one of the victims.
The bodies were later moved to the mortuary at Ugbema, while efforts to secure the release of the abductee continue.
Around 6:00 a.m., armed herders struck the Ejima community in Okokolo LGA, firing sporadically and injuring Daniel Matthew, who survived the attack.
Security forces conducted searches in the surrounding areas to track the attackers and prevent further incidents.
Later in the day, Ammuneke village in Naka LGA was targeted in another attack, leaving Akula Gugun, 27, and Odi Shimayoho, 28, dead.
Their bodies were moved to Agagbe morgue, and local authorities launched operations in nearby bushes to apprehend the perpetrators.