Gunmen ‘kill 17’ in attack on Benue community

Gunmen have reportedly killed 17 people, during an attack on Mbaikyor Mbalom community, in Gwer LGA of Benue state.

A source in the community who disclosed this to TheCable, said the gunmen invaded the village on Thursday night.

He added that during the attack, they burnt down many houses before murdering the unarmed people, including a little boy.

The source added that the corpses were picked up by members of the community on Friday morning.

“The gunmen attacked my home, Mbaikyor Mbalom council ward in Gwer local government of Benue state,” the source said.

He gave the names of residents killed as Peter Tion, Nyityo Kyoon, Iorfa Ukombor, Doopinen Awua, Tyoshaa Mkaanem, Asan Ate, Asough Ate, Igba Byuan and Master Ter Byuan.

Others are Terzungwe Asoo Ate, MWO Mbatsavbun Gbatar (rtd), John Ndahagh Tyohemba, Tertsea Ukombor, Akuma Kpenge, Abume Kpenge, Terzungwe Aulugh and a little boy who is yet to be identified.

When contacted, Catherine Anene, spokesperson of the Benue police command, said she was not aware of the incident.

“I don’t have that information,” Anene said.

Recently, scores of persons were reportedly killed during a clash between rival militia groups in Ukom LGA of Benue state.