Over 30 killed in bandits attack on Benue communities

From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

Over 30 persons have been reportedly killed by invading terrorists in separate attacks on communities in two Local Government Areas (LGA) of Benue state.
Our correspondent gathered that bandits invaded communities in Logo LGA, on Saturday and Sunday, killing 20 people and injuring over 30 others while 10 persons have been killed in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area.
As at the time of filing this report on Monday morning, locals said the killings were still ongoing.
Speaking to newsmen, a community leader from Logo LGA, Chief Joseph Anawa said the terrorists attacked Azege settlement of Tombo Council Ward yesterday, Sunday 24th November 2024 at about 7am.
Anawa who said that the terrorists numbered over 300 alleged that they are suspected to be militia from outside Nigeria, probably hired from neighbouring countries.
He said, “their appearance was slightly different from the herders we have around.
“This invasion was carried out in the morning hours and the invaders were clearly seen by the locals.
The security operatives on ground were unable to repel them because of their number and the sophisticated weapons they were carrying.
“It was not until the arrival of a military jet before they were able to subdue them to retreat. As we speak, over 20 corpses were discovered while the search for more missing persons is on going.”
The Chairman of Logo LGA, Mr Clement Kav confirmed the killings to newsmen on phone on Monday morning.
Kav said: “It is true that some bandits came all the way from Nasarawa State and attacked my people. They attack the Tombo Council Ward and killed 17 persons and injured 37.”
According to him, the bandits are claiming ownership of the Tombo land that belongs to them.
He, however, said the governor has mobilized more security officers to the area.
The Chairman of Katsina Ala LGA, Mr Justine Shaku, also, confirmed the Monday attack in his area.
Shaku who lamented several attacks in the area said, “Yes, another incident of attack by bandits was reported to have taken place this morning the 25th day of November, 2024 at about 20:00 hrs.
“Information is that many of them heavily armed stormed Adabo village and Tse Gwebe settlement in Utange Council Ward, Shitile in Katsina -Ala LGA. From reports, they killed many people, the number yet unknown, destroyed valuable properties and looted a lot of household items and left uninterruptedly.
“Benue State is under severe security threat by armed bandits. The level of destruction and scores killed would be forwarded to you in due course, please,” he said.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer PPRO Benue State Command, SP Catherine Anene confirmed the Logo attack and said five dead bodies have so far been recovered.