Panic and sorrow have gripped Abande settlement in Mbaikyor Ward of Turan, Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State after an armed assault on a busy market reportedly left more than 16 traders dead and several others missing.
According to community reports, the incident happened during an active market period when buyers and sellers were carrying out their daily transactions. Witnesses say heavily armed attackers suddenly invaded the area, disrupting activities, forcefully taking goods and cash, and damaging multiple stalls and structures within the marketplace.
Local sources state that large amounts of traders' money and valuables were taken during the raid before parts of the market were set on fire, leading to widespread losses for small business owners and families who depend on the trading hub for survival.
A community leader and former supervisory councillor in Kwande LGA, Lawrence Akerigba, confirmed that the market was fully active at the time of the attack. He explained that security personnel later moved in to evacuate victims, with several bodies transported to nearby Jato-Aka by Mobile Police officers deployed in the area. He also noted that a police officer attached to the responding unit lost his life during the incident.
Residents say a number of people are still unaccounted for as search teams continue to check nearby routes and settlements. The attack has renewed calls from community stakeholders for tighter rural security, faster emergency response, and sustained protection for vulnerable market centers.
Authorities are expected to intensify investigations and security patrols as affected families and traders begin counting their losses.
+15856533044, +15856533044
-
Nkama SamuelDedicated Support -
Ezugwu EjikeSocial Support -
Okoli JonathanAdmin
