In a tragic incident in Benue State, the Onipi community of Adoka in Otukpo Local Government Area faced a brutal attack by suspected armed herdsmen, resulting in the death of two individuals and leaving several others missing from their farms. The armed assailants reportedly descended on the community on Tuesday afternoon, launching a violent assault on the victims as they worked in their fields.
According to a source who spoke anonymously, the attackers not only killed the victims but also set fire to yam barns and a mini truck used for transporting tubers of yam from the farms. Community members described the attack as unprovoked, as they had no prior issues with the perpetrators. The senseless violence has left the residents devastated, especially considering the hard work and dedication of the farmers to provide for their families and communities.
urrently, authorities have confirmed two fatalities, and search teams are actively looking for the missing individuals, hoping to find them alive. Investigations indicate that the armed herdsmen might have infiltrated the area through the neighboring Apa Local Government Area, where similar attacks have occurred recently.
Alfred Omakwu, the Caretaker Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, condemned the attack and confirmed the loss of lives, along with significant property damage caused by the invaders. The community is reeling from the shock of the assault and the tragic loss of lives, with residents calling for swift action to apprehend the perpetrators and prevent further violence.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, has not been reachable for comments at this time. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by farming communities in Benue State and the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect lives and property from such heinous attacks.
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