Gunmen Kill 5 Police Officers, 16 Others in Ebonyi, Benue

Gunmen unleashed chaos in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, claiming the lives of five police officers. The incident, which happened around 5:00 am at Ebyia bridge along Hilltop/Nwoke road, has left the community in shock.

Simultaneously, in a separate attack on Wandor, Mbaikyor community in the Mbalom Council Ward of Gwer East Local Government Area, Benue State, a retired army officer and 15 others fell victim to suspected armed herdsmen during a Thursday evening assault.

Reports indicate that the assailants, numbering about 40, descended upon the community at approximately 7:00 pm, catching the locals off guard. The attackers, armed to the teeth, opened fire, resulting in the tragic loss of lives.

This assault marks a grim six-year anniversary since a previous attack by armed herdsmen on St. Ignatius Catholic Church, Ukpor Parish, Mbalom Gwer East LGA, claimed the lives of two Catholic priests and 17 parishioners.

Survivors recount a brutal onslaught, with the invaders not only taking lives but also razing over 50 houses, huts, farmlands, and food barns in 11 settlements. The extent of the devastation reflects the severity of the attack.

Caretaker Chairman of Gwer East LGA, Mrs. Comfort Agbo, confirmed the incident, stating, “at the moment, there is relative peace in Wandor community. 16 bodies have so far been recovered. Two were injured and are receiving treatment. Those who attacked and killed my people are suspected armed herdsmen. The security operatives are currently moving the bodies to the mortuary.”

Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent, SP, Catherine Anene, corroborated the reports, revealing that the Police Commissioner was en route to the scene for an on-the-spot assessment.

In response to the tragedy, the Benue State Deputy Governor, Dr. Sam Ode, led a delegation to the affected community, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and the need for immediate attention.