At least 60 people have been reported killed following an attack by gunmen on Ayati village in the Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, Northcentral Nigeria.
The deadly incident occurred on the evening of Thursday, August 8, 2024.
A villager, who lost five relatives in the attack, confirmed that two policemen were also killed by the assailants.
“On August 8, 2024, around 4:30 p.m., as normal activities were taking place in Ayati village, a large group of armed bandits invaded and began shooting indiscriminately, resulting in the deaths of over 60 villagers,” the source said.
Eyewitness Shima Ayati added that while thirty bodies have been recovered, more casualties may have occurred.
“The bandits, numbering over 60 and arriving on motorcycles from Sai road, opened fire on the residents, killing at least thirty people. Many others are missing, and only thirty corpses have been retrieved so far,” he said.
Ayati described how the bandits targeted homes, shooting indiscriminately and causing severe casualties, with some victims dying on their way to the hospital in Zaki Baim.
After their rampage, the attackers escaped via Sai road, leaving the community devastated and believing that more bodies may be hidden in the surrounding bush.
This attack is the second on Ayati village in the past month, following a previous assault that claimed six lives and sparked violent protests in Zaki Biam.
State Police Command spokesperson SP Catherine Anene confirmed the attack but noted that detailed information was still pending.
“I’m aware of the incident and am waiting for a full briefing from officers on the ground,” she said.
Governor Hyacinth Alia expressed profound sadness over the attack in a statement issued by his chief press secretary, Tersoo Kula.
Governor Alia condemned the violence, expressing concern that such incidents persist despite a strong security presence.
He vowed to continue using lawful measures to protect the people of Benue, especially those in Ukum and urged security personnel to enhance their surveillance and safeguard vulnerable communities.
The governor extended his condolences to the families of the victims and assured them of his thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
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