Gunmen Kill Three Mourners Returning From Burial In Benue

Gunmen have killed three mourners and kidnapped two others returning from a burial in Benue State, sparking fresh security fears.

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Security operatives patrol Benue community after gunmen attacked returning mourners

A tragic attack has claimed the lives of three people in Benue State. Armed men struck on Saturday, April 25, 2026, targeting mourners who were on their way back from a burial. The incident happened near Sati-Ikov Council Ward in Ushongo Local Government Area.

‎The attackers did not just kill. They also took two people away. A local resident, who begged to stay anonymous out of fear, explained that local militias ambushed the group. Three mourners died on the spot, while two others were forcibly taken into the bush.

‎Simon Gabo, the lawmaker representing Ushongo Constituency in the Benue State House of Assembly, confirmed the sad news on Sunday. He expressed deep frustration, noting that his community has practically turned into a battlefield over the past two weeks.

‎The victims deserve to be known. Gabo identified the three killed as Bem Msughter from Mbakyombo, Aondo Chia from Mbamegh, and Sunday Terwase from Mbakyor. All three communities are in the Daav-Ikov area.

‎The kidnappers also have names. Gabo revealed that the armed men seized Aondongu Amos, a local POS operator, and Mrs. Arinze, an Igbo patent medicine trader. Both were simply returning from the burial before the gunmen intercepted them.

‎Gabo, who also serves as the Deputy Majority Chief Whip, shared more chilling details. He said he received a distress call from his people around 4 am on Sunday.

The callers explained that the armed men shot the victims and carted away their bags. The attackers also robbed other residents in the vicinity before escaping.

‎This is sadly not an isolated incident. Gabo pointed out that three people were killed in the same community just two weeks ago. He lamented that such violent attacks now happen every other week, leaving the locals in constant fear.

‎Where are these attackers coming from? The lawmaker believes they cross the river from Katsina-Ala Local Government Area to carry out their raids.

After attacking, they retreat back across the water into a mountainous area covered by thick forests. This difficult terrain makes it easy for them to hide.

‎There is, however, a security response underway. Gabo confirmed he has officially reported the incident to the police. The Divisional Police Officer has already led security personnel into the community to assess the situation and restore calm.