Gunmen suspected to be herdsmen have killed18 persons including two police officers, after they attacked Gbeji, Ukum local government area of Benue state.
The Ukum Local Government Chairman, Mr. Kertyo Tyounbur, who confirmed the attack on phone, told journalists that the herders attacked the villagers between 4a.m and 5a.m on Wednesday, and attacked a police station in the area and killed two officers on duty.
While explaining that the attack was clearly unprovoked, the chairman said 12 injured persons who were brutally macheted were receiving treatment in a public hospital at Afia.
“We are still searching the bushes for more corpses and survivors. I went to the scene to ascertain the level of damage and those killed, I couldn’t because it was discovered that the attackers, the Fulani militia were still around in the bushes. So security advised me to move aside with the people that were with me as it was not safe.
“The attack took place at Gbeji, just between and Anyiin. The first point of attack was a Catholic Church on that road. They came about 3a.m. Several women were macheted by the attackers.
“They must have come from Tseke, a border community with Nasarawa and Taraba states. In fact, we heard that they had their meeting in Kente another border community in Taraba state yesterday and then today (Wednesday) they attacked our communities.
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“Among the dead were two policemen who were on duty at the Police Station in Gbeji where the attack occurred. They attacked the Police Station and the police men who were on duty were shot dead,” he said.
The Special Adviser to Governor Samuel Ortom on Security, Lt. Col. Paul Hembah, rtd, also confirmed saying security operatives were still combing the bushes for corpses as many people are still missing.
He said so far 18 corps have been recovered and taken to the morgue. They include Mtem Torpav, Eje Abraham a Policeman, Zege, Afam Abama, Akor Jem, John Nor, Torlumun Orabende, Orpandega Terseer, Bem Nyichia, Atseva Ortwer, Mrs. Torsar, Nyave Tyoulugh, Kpaver Tion, Ugba Joseph, Mbakumbur Peter, Moses Pav, Apeseza Baba and Unduun.
When contacted, Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, SP Catherine Anene, confirmed the attack saying “I received a report of an attack at Gbeji, Ukum LGA where one policeman lost his life but I have not received details of the report.
She said more police teams in collaboration with other security agencies have been deployed to the area.
