Tragedy as Bandits Unleash Deadly Attack, Claiming 24 Lives, Leaving a Trail of Destruction in Benue

Gunmen launched a deadly assault on Zaki Akpuuna 1 and Diom communities within the Mbaterem district of the Ukum Local Government Area in Benue State, resulting in the tragic loss of 24 innocent lives. The region of Ukum, alongside Logo and Katsina Ala, forms part of the notorious Sankera axis, where remnants of the notorious gang led by the late Terwase Akwaza, alias Gana, are believed to hold influence. This brazen attack occurred on Saturday morning, sending shockwaves through the peaceful communities.

According to eyewitnesses, the assailants struck around 8 a.m., descending upon the quiet villages with merciless intent. Shockingly, in addition to the loss of lives, several homes in the adjacent areas fell victim to the assailants’ arson.

A resident, who preferred to remain anonymous, recounted the horrifying ordeal, stating that the bandits targeted Zaki Akpuuna, leaving 24 people dead. The resident further explained, “The three local government areas in the Sankera axis have long been under the grip of local bandits led by Gana. Since his demise, his followers have fragmented, each now controlled by different leaders. While the motive behind this attack remains unclear, reports suggest that approximately 20 gunmen invaded Akpuuna and neighboring villages in Ukum LGA, claiming numerous lives and leaving a trail of destruction in the form of burnt houses. So far, 24 bodies have been recovered, and the search continues to locate the missing.”

Confirming the devastating incident, Mr. Kartyo Tyoumbur, the council Chairman, verified the recovery of 24 bodies from the two targeted villages. Expressing his dismay, he lamented that the motive behind the attack remained shrouded in uncertainty. Mr. Tyoumbur revealed, “After the assailants attacked Akpuuna and Diom, they proceeded to Tine-Nune community on the Zaki Biam-Wukari Road, where they encountered the military. Although the exact number of casualties inflicted upon the attackers is unknown, it is believed that some of them were neutralized during the exchange.”

The State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Catherine Anene, corroborated the attack in an official statement on Saturday. She disclosed, “Today, on 8/7/2023, at approximately 12 p.m., a militia gang invaded Akpuna village in Ukum LGA, Benue State, and unleashed a hail of bullets. In response, police teams swiftly mobilized in conjunction with other security agencies and engaged the bandits, successfully repelling their assault. At the scene, eight lifeless bodies were recovered, while several injured individuals were promptly transported to a medical facility for treatment. Ongoing operations are underway in the area.”

Despite efforts to reach the spokesperson for Operation Whirl Stroke, Flt Lt. D.O. Oquah, his unavailability hindered obtaining further details as his contact could not be established.