Makurdi — At least five persons are feared dead following a fresh attack by suspected armed herders on Ortese community, along the Igyungu Aze–Yogbo road in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.
The attack, which occurred on Tuesday, left several residents injured, while many others were reportedly abducted by the assailants and taken to unknown locations. Community sources say the casualty figure may rise, as a number of residents are still missing, with youths combing nearby bushes in search of survivors.
Among those whose bodies have been recovered are Solo Uchi of Tse Hagher, reportedly killed on his farm; Iorlaha from Orogbo; and Tersoo Uker of Tse Uker, all in Guma Local Government Area.
A resident, who requested anonymity, described the situation as frightening, noting that the latest assault came barely two days after a similar attack in Daudu, where two people were killed.
He said five bodies have so far been found, but fears remain that more victims may be discovered.
One of the victims, Tersoo Uker, was said to be an internally displaced person who had gone to Tse Avule, behind the Igyungu Aze IDP camp, to gather grass for roofing a hut outside the camp due to congestion.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers blocked the Ortese–Yogbo road, ambushing residents on the highway and in nearby bushes as people attempted to escape.
Some were reportedly killed on the spot, while others were chased into the forested areas.
Several residents were also said to have been captured alive and taken away, raising serious concerns about their safety.
The incident has sparked panic in Ortese community, forcing many families to flee their homes.
Residents say the discovery of more bodies in surrounding bushes has heightened fear, as uncertainty grows over possible further attacks.
Efforts to get a reaction from the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.