The Benue State police command has dispelled strong rumors that yet to be identified gunmen gruesomely attacked some communities in Katsina-Ala in Benue State killing dozens and abducting some.
It was gathered that the invaders attacked some villages in Shikaan , Mbagena, Kpav communities all in Shitile area of Katsina-Ala Local Government.
Although sources from Katsina-Ala claimed that no fewer than 36 people were killed in the attack,the police image maker Sewuese Anene in a statement dismissed it as mere rumours.
She insist that when detectives stormed the area there were no signs of corpses or graves to signify any form of burial and no official reports have been made to the police in the area.
Anene however disclosed that more police operatives have been deployed to the area for routine patrols and surveillance.
“Members of the public are advised to desist from rumour mongering and hate speeches that create unnecessary tension within the state.
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Media practitioners are also advised to ensure that they practice investigative journalism to ensure accurate and balanced reporting as this will help the police to channel limited resources to the right places at the right time. “She added.
Efforts to get the Council boss of Katsina-Ala, Alfred Atera to confirm the report of the attack on his council were not successful as he was yet to pick his calls at the time of this report.
An attack in Gwer West Local Government which reportedly occurred in Tinader village on Makurdi-Naka Road was however confirmed by the council chairman Grace Igba. “so far, five corpses had been recovered from the scene of the attack.”She added.
Igbabon who also confirmed the abduction of some persons by the gunmen whose whereabouts are still unknown at the time of this report.
“Even this morning there was an exchange of fire between herdsmen and villagers at Mbakpa village. One corpse has so far been recovered from the area,” Igbabon said.
(Editor : Paul Akhagbemhe)
