Three Feared Dead as Gunmen Attack Benue Community

At least three people have been killed by unidentified gunmen in Mbasombo, a community in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Sewuese Anene, confirmed the attack on Thursday in Makurdi, stating that it occurred on Wednesday night.

“Three individuals lost their lives, several others sustained injuries, and numerous houses were set ablaze by the attackers. Security personnel have since been deployed to the area,” Anene said.

A local resident and survivor, John Terwase, described the harrowing incident, saying that the assailants stormed the village at night, firing indiscriminately and setting homes on fire.

He said the sudden attack caused widespread fear and chaos, prompting residents to flee into nearby forests and surrounding communities.

“We were asleep when the gunshots began, initially thinking it was a robbery, but the intensity quickly grew,” Terwase recalled.

“We escaped with our children into the night, many without shoes. I haven’t seen my younger brother since then. This isn’t just an attack—it’s a massacre. Our village is only about seven minutes from Makurdi. If we’re not safe here, where are we safe?”

Locals believe the death toll may be higher, as several people remain missing, and the injured are being treated in temporary shelters and nearby health centers.