Two people have been confirmed dead and several others injured in a fresh attack by suspected armed herdsmen on Ikpele and Okpokpolo communities of Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State. The attackers also set fire to many houses in the affected villages, forcing residents to flee for their lives.
The incident occurred on Tuesday night, around 10 p.m., when the assailants invaded the communities from neighbouring Nasarawa State. According to eyewitnesses, the attackers came in large numbers and were armed with sophisticated weapons. They shot sporadically at anyone they saw and torched several buildings.
A source in the area, who pleaded anonymity, said that two bodies have been recovered so far, while many people are still missing or wounded. He said that the security agencies have been alerted and are expected to intervene soon.
This attack came barely a week after three security personnel and two civilians were killed in a similar attack on Okokolo community, also in Agatu LGA. The security operatives were ambushed by the gunmen while responding to a distress call from the villagers.
The Agatu LGA has been a flashpoint of violent clashes between farmers and herders for several years, despite several peace initiatives and interventions by the state and federal governments. The area has witnessed several massacres and displacements of thousands of people due to the incessant attacks.
The Benue State Government has condemned the latest attack and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice. The Governor, Samuel Ortom, has also called on the federal government to deploy more security forces to the area to restore law and order.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Catherine Anene, said she has not received details of the incident, but promised to update the public as soon as possible.
It is important to note that the details of this incident are still emerging, and the actual number of casualties could be higher than currently reported. This article will be updated as more information becomes available.
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