At least 13 people have been confirmed dead following a violent attack by suspected gunmen on a bustling market in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State.
According to local sources, the assailants stormed the market in the early hours of the day, shooting sporadically and causing panic among traders and residents. Victims were reportedly caught unawares as they went about their normal commercial activities.
In addition to the fatalities, several traders were abducted during the raid and taken to an unknown location. Many others sustained injuries, while shops and goods were left destroyed as people fled for safety.
Community members said security forces were alerted, but the attackers had already escaped before help arrived. The injured were rushed to nearby health facilities for treatment, while families of the abducted are anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones.
The Benue State Government has condemned the attack, describing it as a senseless act of violence against innocent civilians. Authorities said security operations have been intensified in and around Kwande to rescue those abducted and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Residents have called on the federal and state governments to beef up security in rural communities, lamenting repeated attacks that have disrupted livelihoods and left many living in fear.
As of the time of filing this report, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
Welcome to KjtsonBlog, your trusted source for Nigerian celebrity news, Naija entertainment updates, and trending news in Nigeria. Stay connected to the latest gist, events, and stories across Naija and worldwide.