By Terfa Moses 

One person has been killed and several houses destroyed following a suspected militia attack on Mbasa community in Utange Council Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, Benue State. Security personnel who responded to the incident said the attackers fled before troops arrived at the scene.

A suspected militia attack on Mbasa community in Utange Council Ward of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State has resulted in the death of one resident and the destruction of several houses.

According to security sources, troops of Sector 1, working alongside operatives of the Benue State Civil Protection Guards, responded to a distress call from the community at about 8:30 a.m. on June 4 after reports of an ongoing attack.

The sources disclosed that security personnel were deployed to the area immediately. However, the attackers reportedly escaped before the arrival of the responding forces.

Preliminary findings from an assessment conducted after the incident indicated that one resident lost his life during the attack, while multiple houses were set ablaze, leaving affected families displaced and counting losses.

Investigators who visited the scene reportedly recovered two spent 7.62mm special ammunition cartridges, suggesting that firearms were used during the assault.

The body of the deceased was later released to family members for burial in accordance with local customs and traditions.

Military sources said efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack. Authorities also stated that security presence has been reinforced in and around the affected community to prevent further violence and reassure residents.

The latest incident adds to persistent security challenges facing parts of Katsina-Ala and other communities across Benue State, where residents have continued to experience attacks linked to armed groups and militia activities.