Bandits Attack Benue Market, Kill Scores and Burn Shops

Armed bandits on Monday, 3 February 2026, attacked a busy market in Abande community, Mbaikyor Ward, Turan, Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State, killing several people and causing widespread destruction.

The attack occurred at about 2:00 p.m., when the assailants stormed the market, shooting indiscriminately and setting shops ablaze. Casualty figures remain unclear, with sources putting the number of those killed at between five and seventeen persons, including a police officer on duty.

Eyewitnesses said the sudden assault threw the area into panic, forcing traders and residents to flee for safety as the market and the surrounding community descended into chaos. Many shops were looted before being set on fire, leaving traders counting heavy losses.

Security personnel were later deployed to the area, while residents continued to be fearful of further attacks.

Reacting to the incident, Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, condemned the attack and described it as a senseless act of violence against innocent citizens. He assured the public that security agencies have been directed to pursue the perpetrators and ensure they are brought to justice.