Fear Spreads in Benue State as Suspected Herdsmen Attack Troops, Kill Soldier, Injure One

Story: written by Myra March 30,2026
Tension has escalated in a community in Benue State after suspected herdsmen launched an attack on military personnel in Yaryiwa, Mbaikyor Council Ward, within Kwande.

The incident forced many residents to flee their homes in fear following the ambush on the soldiers, which left one officer dead, another injured, and a third temporarily abducted.

Speaking on the development, the youth leader of Mbaikyor Council Ward, Igbawua Gandepuun, revealed that the troops had responded to a distress call from locals who reported an impending attack by armed herders.

According to him, the soldiers were caught off guard while attempting to prevent the invasion.

Although initial reports from residents indicated that two officers were killed, a military source later clarified that one soldier lost his life, while another sustained gunshot wounds. The third officer, who was initially taken captive, was said to have regained freedom the following day.

Security authorities have since launched an investigation to track down those responsible for the attack.

Meanwhile, security presence has been intensified across the area as efforts continue to restore calm and reassure displaced residents to return home.