Scores of residents were killed in a deadly attack on Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State on Saturday morning. The coordinated assault, carried out by suspected armed herdsmen, left many dead and properties destroyed in what locals describe as an unprecedented attack on the community.
According to eyewitness accounts, the attackers invaded the town in the early hours, employing a strategic approach by splitting into three groups to penetrate Yelewata from multiple directions simultaneously.
Coordinated Three-Pronged Attack
Sources revealed that the assault began through Tse Ate, a track leading to Agugu Igbaakombo, and another path behind the community's market square. The invaders reportedly opened fire in turns, a tactic apparently designed to confuse and divide local security efforts.
Despite resistance attempts by youths and police personnel, they were overwhelmed by the attackers' superior numbers and tactical approach.
Victims Trapped and Burnt Alive
Comrade Joseph Apahar Joo, Media and Publicity Officer for the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) unit in Benue State, provided disturbing details of the attack. He revealed that a third group of attackers, who entered through the rear of the community, specifically targeted shops where many residents were sleeping.
"Those who tried to escape were chased and killed. Others couldn't come out because the attackers had already sprayed fuel on the doors before setting the buildings ablaze," Comrade Joo stated.
The attackers razed shops and homes, with victims reportedly burnt alive alongside farm produce and stored food items. The attack has devastated the community, which is known for its early resistance against violent invasions in Benue but had never experienced an attack of this magnitude.
Yelewata, which had previously been noted for its resilience against invasions, now joins the growing list of communities that have suffered from escalating violence in the region.
As investigations continue, authorities have yet to release official casualty figures or details about potential arrests related to this attack.
Stay updated with the latest developments on this story by following BenriNews on our social media platforms:
