Suspected Fulani cattle rustlers have reportedly attacked Okpafie community in Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue State, killing two people and making away with more than 40 cows.
The attack reportedly occurred on Tuesday night in Oyilawu village, located in Okonobo Ward.
According to residents, one of the victims, identified simply as Benjamin, a native of Okpafie, was killed during the attack as the gunmen invaded the community and rustled dozens of cattle.
A local source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said many of the community's youths were watching a football match when the attackers struck, delaying any immediate response.
By the time the youths mobilised to confront the assailants, the gunmen had reportedly escaped with over 40 cows.
The source further alleged that a member of the local vigilante was also killed at Aidogodo while trying to prevent the attackers from fleeing with the stolen livestock.
The latest incident comes just days after suspected armed herders reportedly attacked Sai community in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, where several people were feared killed, many others injured, and homes set ablaze, forcing residents to flee.
As of the time of filing this report, the Benue State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the latest attack in Okpokwu, and authorities are yet to confirm the reported casualty figures.
Post a Comment