Tensions have escalated in Benue State as yet another attack has been reported in Tse Jam, a community in Kwande Local Government Area (LGA). Armed individuals, suspected to be herdsmen, invaded the area on Tuesday afternoon, triggering fear and chaos among residents.
Located just four kilometers from Jato Aka, the community came under siege with attackers targeting locals, particularly farmers. Several individuals sustained injuries during the violent raid, with one of the victims identified as Aondona Adina, who was assaulted in his own home, according to SaharaReporters.
Eyewitness accounts describe a scene of panic, as unsuspecting residents scrambled for safety. Many were caught off guard by the assault, and the exact number of casualties remains uncertain.
This latest attack follows a troubling pattern of violence in Jato Aka, where previous invasions have already forced thousands to flee their homes in search of refuge elsewhere. Community members are growing increasingly concerned about the deteriorating security situation.
Reports indicate that unidentified individuals were spotted in Jato Aka days before the incident, fueling suspicions that the attackers had been gathering intelligence before striking. Local security teams have since intensified surveillance efforts, questioning strangers to assess potential threats.
Over the weekend, security guards detained several suspicious individuals, handing them over to authorities. However, this move sparked disagreements within the community, as some residents argued that the suspects should have been dealt with locally. The situation escalated, resulting in security forces firing shots to disperse the crowd, prompting many to flee.
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Authorities have responded to the growing unrest, with the Benue State Police Command confirming that attacks have occurred in the region. However, police officials refuted claims that suspects had been transferred into their custody.
As violence spreads beyond Benue to states like Ondo and Enugu, affected communities are grappling with heightened insecurity and displacement. Residents are calling on authorities to take swift and effective action to curb further attacks and restore peace to the region.
