Godstime Simon
The Mbasombo community in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State has been raided by unknown armed men leaving three people dead, houses burnt and individuals missing in the overnight attack.
The attack on the community was reportedly enacted on Wednesday night at about 11 p.m., and lasted over an hour, leaving many injured, others missing, and several houses razed.
A petty trader in the community who is a
survivor of the attack, Atumegh Ahemga, gave a detailed narration on how the raid started, he said that armed herdsmen stormed the community on Wednesday night while shooting the air.
He said: “We had gone to bed when the heavy sound of gunshots came from different directions. Nobody knew what was happening.
“People came out of their houses and ran in different directions because the attackers who were herders were shooting and burning down the houses of the people.
“As people ran, they were shooting at them and whoever they caught up with was either killed or maimed. It was horrific but luckily a lot of people escaped to neighbouring villages about three persons lost their lives, although many people sustained injuries while the attackers burnt down houses.
“This attack was unprovoked and no one can tell why the armed herdsmen decided to invade Mbasombo. The attack lasted for about one hour, security personnel did not come to the aid of the people. It was a sad experience because people lost their lives, and many are still missing and accounted for. It has been a horrific experience for people.”
Contacted, the Gwer council Chairman, Timothy Adi who confirmed the attack said three deaths had so far been confirmed while calm had returned to the community.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene who also confirmed the development said security has now been restored to the community.
