One killed, homes razed in suspected militia attack on Benue community

A suspected militia attack on Mbasa community in Utange Council Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State has claimed the life of one resident and left several houses destroyed.

Sources within the military disclosed that troops of Sector 1, in collaboration with operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guards, responded to a distress call from the community at about 8:30 am on June 4.

According to the sources, security personnel were swiftly deployed to the area following reports of an ongoing attack. However, by the time the troops arrived, the assailants had reportedly fled the scene.

Preliminary findings from the security assessment revealed that one person was killed during the attack, while a number of houses were set ablaze by the attackers, leaving residents devastated.

Investigators who visited the scene recovered two spent 7.62mm special ammunition cartridges, indicating that firearms were used during the assault.

The remains of the deceased were subsequently released to family members, who conducted burial rites in accordance with local customs.

Military authorities said efforts were ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack. They also assured residents that security measures had been reinforced in and around the community to prevent further incidents and restore public confidence.

The latest attack adds to growing security concerns in parts of Katsina-Ala and other communities in Benue State, where residents continue to face threats from armed groups and militia attacks.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, could not be reached to confirm the incident as of the time of filing this report.