Bandits have unleashed violence in three different communities within the Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State, resulting in the death of approximately 26 people, including security personnel.

The attacks occurred between Saturday and Monday in the Mbakunwande and Jaora communities, as well as along the Naka/Adoka road.

Chairman of Gwer West LGA, Henry Agba, confirmed the tragic incident, stating, “The attack started on Saturday, six security operatives of the state, comprising Benue Security Community Volunteer Guards and Livestock Guards were killed.”

Agba recounted the sequence of events, saying, “They (operatives) escorted the family of a deceased to a village called Mbakunwande where they had gone to bury the loved one, and they ambushed them and killed them.”

The violence continued with an attack on Sunday in Jaroa community, claiming the lives of 14 individuals. On Monday, another assault along the Naka/Adoka road resulted in six fatalities and numerous injuries.

Agba emphasized that the incidents had been reported to the police and state security adviser, Joseph Har, who visited one of the scenes on Monday.

The attacks have left the affected communities in mourning and heightened tension in the area. Authorities are expected to take swift action to address the escalating insecurity and bring the perpetrators to justice.