Gunmen Attack Yelwata Community in Benue State, Multiple Casualties Reported
Benue State, Nigeria – June 14, 2025:
Tragedy struck in the early hours of Saturday as suspected armed bandits launched a deadly assault on Yelwata, a community located in Benue State, leaving several residents feared dead and many others injured.
According to a statement released by the Public Relations Officer of the Benue State Police Command, SP Udeme Edet, the armed assailants stormed the community under the cover of darkness. Law enforcement officers and tactical teams stationed in the area responded promptly to distress calls and engaged the attackers in a fierce exchange, resulting in the neutralization of some of the suspects.
SP Edet confirmed that lives were lost in the attack, while several residents sustained varying degrees of injuries. He further noted that security forces are currently pursuing the fleeing assailants and have intensified patrols to ensure the safety of the community and its environs.
In response to the tragic incident, the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Dr. Sam Ode, visited Yelwata for an on-the-ground assessment of the aftermath. Expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives, he condemned the unprovoked violence and described it as a gross act of inhumanity.
Dr. Ode reassured residents of the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, emphasizing that security efforts in vulnerable communities would be strengthened to prevent similar attacks in the future.
He also extended heartfelt condolences to the families affected and promised that the state government would take every necessary measure to support victims and restore peace to the area.
Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
