One killed, homes razed in suspected militia attack on Benue community

A suspected militia attack on the Mbasa community in Utange Council Ward of Katsina‑Ala Local Government Area, Benue State, resulted in one fatality and the destruction of several houses.

Military sources said that troops from Sector 1, together with members of the Benue State Civil Protection Guards, responded to a distress call from the community at about 8:30 am on June 4.

Security forces were dispatched quickly after reports of an ongoing attack. By the time they arrived, however, the assailants had reportedly fled the scene.

Preliminary security assessments found that one person was killed during the assault, and that several houses had been set ablaze by the attackers, leaving residents devastated.

Investigators who visited the scene recovered two spent 7.62 mm special ammunition cartridges, indicating that firearms were used.

The remains of the deceased were later released to family members, who carried out burial rites in accordance with local customs.

Military authorities said they were continuing to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack. They also assured residents that security measures had been reinforced in and around the community to prevent further incidents and restore public confidence.

The latest attack adds to growing security concerns in parts of Katsina‑Ala and other communities in Benue State, where residents continue to face threats from armed groups and militia attacks.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, could not be reached to confirm the incident as of the time of filing this report.