Panic has gripped a community in Benue State leaving residents in disarray following an ambush on army personnel by suspected herdsmen at Yaryiwa, Mbaikyor Council Ward, in the Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State. The attack also resulted in the death of at least one officer and injuries to another, while a third was briefly abducted.

Igbawua Gandepuun, a youth leader in Mbaikyor Council Ward, disclosed the incident during a telephone interview. He explained that the officers were responding to a distress call from a community member who had raised the alarm regarding an invasion by herders.

Military confirms casualties in Kwande ambush

In a move to intercept the planned attack, the suspected herdsmen ambushed the personnel. While initial community reports suggested two fatalities, a military source speaking on condition of anonymity clarified that one officer was killed.

The source confirmed that the ambush occurred on Friday evening. One officer died at the scene, another sustained gunshot injuries, and a third was abducted. The abducted officer reportedly regained his freedom on Saturday.

Investigation launched to apprehend perpetrators

Military authorities have initiated an investigation to arrest the perpetrators of the attack. Security remains tight in the region as officials work to restore order and encourage residents to return to their homes. (BusinessDay)