At least 17 people have reportedly lost their lives after an attack on Mbalom community in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State on Easter Sunday.
Residents described the incident as another tragic episode in the ongoing security crisis affecting rural parts of the state. According to accounts from the area, armed assailants invaded the community, killing residents and setting several homes on fire.
So far, 17 bodies have been recovered, while search efforts continue as some victims are still unaccounted for. Locals have been combing nearby bushes in hopes of finding survivors or additional casualties.
The attack also left significant destruction in its wake, with multiple houses and properties reduced to rubble, forcing many residents to flee.
A resident, who chose not to be identified, said: “This is heartbreaking. People were caught unawares. Many are still missing.”
Attempts to reach the spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, for confirmation were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
