15 Killed As Bandits Attack Ex-Governor’s Community

No fewer than 15 people have been killed as bandits launched a fresh attack on former Benue State Governor, Gabriel Suswam’s Anyiin community in the Logo Local Government Area of the state.

Findings revealed that the bandits invaded the community on Wednesday around 6:32pm and shot indiscriminately, leading to the deaths of several residents.

Witnesses said many others were also injured, while several residents are still unaccounted for.

Confirming the attack on Thursday, PUNCH reports that the community leader, Joseph Anawah, said that more than 20 heavily armed attackers conducted a three-hour operation in the community, killing over 15 people and injuring several others.

“Terrorists yesterday, Wednesday, October 30, 2024, unleashed terror on Anyiin town, Logo LGA of Benue State, in an operation that started around 6:32 pm, leaving over 15 people dead, some with injuries, and others missing,” he said.

Anawah reportedly said that among the victims were retired primary school supervisor, Orihundu Ati and Zaki Mbatern, the son of the Kindred Head of Mbawuave.

He also said that other casualties include the son of Tordoo Suswam, a former Chief of Staff, and the son of Mr. Uyange Chembe, whose brother was the late District Head of Ukemberagya.

Anawah, who is a former aide to Suswam, noted that the sheer number of attackers overwhelmed local security forces.

He noted that the attack marks the second incident in October and urged the state government to collaborate with the Federal Government to enhance security in the region.

Also, Alex Igbaya, Special Adviser to the State Governor on Security and External Affairs, confirmed the attack but he did not provide casualty figures.

Igbaya said that security personnel, including military units, have been deployed to the area.

However, when contacted, the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, said she had not yet received details on the incident.