Deadly Attack in Shanjo Village, Benue State By Over Fifty Gunmen, As more Than Two Were Killed, Nine Houses Were Burnt
On the afternoon of February 5th, 2025, an attack by gunmen of over fifty gunmen in Shanjo village, Mbayenge, Benue State, led to the burning of nine thatched houses and the tragic loss of over two lives. The gunmen, reportedly led to attack a man named Mathew Dzegebera Gunmen group, targeted by another group of gunmen from Mbaterem in a retaliatory strike. Sources indicate that the violence may have been a response to earlier conflicts between these groups.
The assault has caused widespread panic in the surrounding villages, forcing many residents to flee for their safety. As the violence intensifies, the villagers are urgently calling for enhanced security measures to curb further attacks and bring those responsible to justice.
The attackers, who are believed to be armed robbers, have reportedly been engaging in criminal activities such as stealing motorcycles and mobile phones from unsuspecting motorcyclists in the region. The situation in Shanjo has become particularly dire, with the attackers’ base consisting of several thatched houses that were completely destroyed in the fire.
Among the victims of the attack were a local doctor, who had been treating injured individuals from previous skirmishes, as well as Mathew Dzegebera’s brother , while he was on the run for his live. The loss of these individuals has compounded the already fragile security situation in the area.
Reports suggest that Mathew Dzegebera may be planning to retaliate further by launching an attack on the neighboring village of Atogbenda. This has heightened concerns in the region, with residents fearing more violence in the coming days.
The ongoing attacks and the growing threat of further violence have left villagers in urgent need of protection. As the conflict continues to unfold, local authorities are under increasing pressure to address the security crisis and prevent further loss of life and property.
