Suspected armed herders have reportedly killed five people in a fresh attack on Tse Ameen community in Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State, further heightening concerns over persistent insecurity in the region.
According to local sources, the assailants invaded the community in a sudden raid, opening fire on residents and causing panic as people fled for safety. The attack, which occurred without prior warning, left at least five persons dead, while several others were said to have sustained injuries or gone missing in the aftermath.
Residents described the incident as another in a series of recurring assaults on rural communities in Gwer West, an area that has witnessed repeated violence linked to suspected herder groups. Although details surrounding the exact circumstances of the latest incident remain sketchy, community members say the attackers retreated into nearby bush paths shortly after carrying out the killings.
Security agencies are yet to issue an official statement on the incident, but local leaders have called for urgent intervention to prevent further loss of lives. The renewed violence has also forced some residents to abandon their homes over fears of additional attacks.
Benue, often referred to as Nigeria’s “food basket,” has in recent years experienced frequent clashes between farmers and armed groups, with disputes over land and grazing routes commonly cited as underlying causes. Reports indicate that such attacks have continued despite security operations and legislative measures aimed at curbing open grazing and rural violence.
The latest killings add to a growing list of deadly incidents in the state, underscoring ongoing challenges in restoring lasting peace across affected communities.