About 24 people have lost their lives in Benue state, Daily Trust reports.
They were killed when armed gunmen invaded Zaki Akpuuna 1 community of Mbaterem District in Ukum Local Government Area of the state.
The locals lamented that the gunmen have been terrorising the vicinity for a long time.
According to witnesses, the criminals invaded two communities, killing young people and setting the villages ablaze.
A resident added that the bandits stormed the area on Saturday morning and started shooting sporadically, causing pandemonium.
Going further, he added that when they left, mangled bodies of those who fell to their bullet were recovered.
He said:
“At least, 24 bodies have been recovered and the search is still on to find missing people.”
Meanwhile, another indigene said the criminals exchanged gunfire with the military while fleeing the scene.
“The exact number of casualties will be more because the military and bandits are currently exchanging gun fire,” the witness added.
He further said residents had fled to Tine Nine, a neigbouring community, for safety.
