At least 5 persons have been reported killed in two separate attacks in Katsina-Ala and Gwer West Local Government Areas of Benue State on Sunday.
While two persons were reportedly killed following a suspected cult attack in Naka, the headquarters of Gwer West Local Government Area, three others were said to have been killed in the home of a politician in Katsina-Ala town in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of the State in the early hours of Sunday.
Sources from Naka who did not want their names disclosed said the rival cult groups had stormed the High Level area of the ancient town of Naka and shot sporadically killing 2 people and injuring others.
The situation, according to sources who spoke to ait.live on telephone had caused residents of the area to scamper for safety while some, thinking that herdsmen were responsible for the attack, even ran into the bushes that night.
“We all took to our heels when we heard the gunshots. Some of us slept in the bush till morning. By the time we returned this morning, we heard that 2 people were killed while others were injured,” one of our sources said.
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ait.live also gathered that the late night attack in Katsina-Ala town happened at Ianna Jato’s country home in Nagu community where 3 people were reported killed, houses burnt and property destroyed.
When contacted, the State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Catherine Anene who confirmed the report said the incident happened around 1am on Sunday.
“Two persons were arrested at the scene of crime while two young men were found in a pool of blood. Victims were rushed to hospital but confirmed dead.”
Anene disclosed further that 5 more suspects have been arrested in connection with the attack adding that investigation was already in progress.
The PPRO also confirmed the attack by unknown gunmen in Kastina-Ala town where she said three persons including a man, his wife and their child were killed.
It will be recalled that barely 4 days ago, 3 policemen and 2 civilians were reportedly killed by yet to be identified gunmen at the residence of the Kastina Ala Local Government Chairman, Alfred Atera.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
