No fewer than five persons were feared killed in a fresh attack by suspected armed herders on Ortese community along the Igyungu Aze–Yogbo Road in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.
The assault, which occurred earlier in the week, also left several residents injured, while many others were reportedly abducted and taken to unknown locations by the attackers.
Residents said the death toll might rise as a number of people were still missing, with youths in the community combing surrounding bushes in search of victims.
Those killed were identified as Solo Uchi from Tse Hagher, who was reportedly attacked on his farm; Iorlaha from Orogbo; and Tersoo Uker from Tse Uker, all communities in Guma LGA.
A community source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “What we have seen so far is frightening. They attacked us on Tuesday, just two days after the Daudu attack where two people were killed. So far five bodies have been recovered, but we believe more may still be found as several people remain unaccounted for.”
It was gathered that Tersoo Uker was an Internally Displaced Person who had gone to Tse Avule, behind the IDP camp at Igyungu Aze, to cut grass for roofing a hut outside the camp because of congestion.
Residents alleged that the attackers blocked the Ortese–Yogbo Road and ambushed motorists and pedestrians, pursuing some victims into nearby bushes.
“They blocked the road completely and started shooting. Some people were killed on the spot, while others ran into the bushes where they were pursued,” a youth leader alleged.
Several other residents were reportedly seized alive and taken away, sparking fears over their fate.
The attack has triggered panic in Ortese and neighbouring communities, with many residents fleeing their homes.
Local sources said the discovery of more bodies in nearby bushes had deepened fear in the area.
“Our people are no longer safe here. Families are running away because we do not know when the attackers will return,” one resident said.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Udeme Edet, could not be reached for comment as of press time.