Bandits attack Benue community, kill police officer and residents
Several people, including a police officer, have been killed in an attack on Abande community in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State. The incident happened near the Cameroon border during a market day, with stalls looted and the market set on fire. Akerigbe Lawrence and the traditional ruler, Ter Kwande, confirmed the attack and the casualties. The police and local authorities are responding to the violence and have deployed additional security personnel.
What happened
- Armed bandits stormed Abande community during a market day, killing several people and setting the market on fire.
- Akerigbe Lawrence listed six victims, including a Mobile Police officer, whose bodies were recovered and taken to the morgue.
- The police confirmed five casualties and stated that the deceased have been deposited at the mortuary.
- DSP Udeme Edet said that on 3 February 2026, suspected armed herder bandits attacked police personnel and community members, resulting in the deaths of one Assistant Superintendent of Police and four community members.
- Previous attacks in the area include the killing of more than 28 people in Anwase on Christmas Day 2024 and the deaths of a farmer and his son in Imande Avur Abande on 15 January 2026.
