A renewed wave of violence erupted on Sunday in Udei community, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, where armed herders launched a mid-morning attack, killing at least four Mobile Police officers. The assault, which began around 11 am, marked a continuation of recent unrest in the area, following a deadly raid on nearby Yelewata community just over two weeks ago. The attackers, after storming Udei, attempted to infiltrate Daudu but were repelled by a joint force of security personnel and local youths.
The violence reportedly began in the Asha community, where gunmen fired shots to drive farmers off their land, causing panic and forcing many to flee. The attackers then extended their aggression toward Ortese, a settlement hosting thousands of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). Fortunately, the military intervened quickly, engaging the marauders in a fierce bush gunfight that lasted nearly an hour, preventing them from entering Ortese. However, panic remains high among residents, especially IDPs, as the attackers reportedly reappeared later in the day.
Community leader Mr. Matthew Mnyan confirmed the coordinated nature of the assault, revealing that four officers were killed in a separate strike on Udei at about 2 pm. Security agencies have since mobilized to the area, but residents remain fearful as night approaches. This latest incident adds to the toll of violence in Benue, where a previous attack in Yelewata claimed over 200 lives, displaced many, and raised concerns over the safety of local communities. Efforts to reach the state’s police spokesperson for comments were unsuccessful.
