At least nine people have been killed following a fresh attack by suspected armed herdsmen on Agena community in Mbalom, Gwer East Local Government Area.
Residents said the attackers, numbering over 50, stormed the community in the early hours of the morning, setting houses, markets, and food barns ablaze while opening fire on fleeing villagers.
“People were fast asleep when the attackers sneaked into the community around 5am and began setting houses and the market ablaze,” a resident said.
“As residents woke up and attempted to flee, the gunmen opened fire on them, killing innocent people without provocation… we fear the number may rise as many persons are still missing.”
Local authorities confirmed that several persons remain unaccounted for, while one injured victim is receiving treatment.
Reacting, Hyacinth Alia condemned the attack, describing it as “barbaric and unacceptable.”
“Governor Hyacinth Alia strongly condemns the heinous attack… He expresses deep sympathy to families affected and assures them that the government stands firmly with them,” a statement read.
Security agencies have since been deployed to the area, with ongoing efforts to track down the perpetrators and prevent further attacks.