Gunmen assault Benue market, kill dealer, abduct lady

Armed men attacked Solozo Market in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State killing one trader and abducting a woman and injuring another.

Eyewitness who spoke to Zagazola Makama, revealed that the assailants – estimated to be six men – rode into the market on three Bajaj motorcycles around. 2.20pm.

The main targets appeared to be traders who had arrived to buy pepper and other produce.

As the gunmen began firing on traders, a 29-years old trader, Imoter Denen from Harga Village was shot and killed. A woman who was identified as Nguveren Iorwuese was abducted by the gunmen, who fled to an unknown location.

Another trader identified as Saater Akwaza was shot by a stray bullet and suffered some wounds.

Security personnel responded immediately to a distress call and started searching the vicinity. A source with the Military said, they were in the area when it happened, but the gunmen had escaped before they arrived.

The injured victim was taken to the General Hospital in Katsina-Ala and is currently receiving medical treatment.

Meanwhile, the body of the deceased has been released to his family for burial, following their request.

The incident has heightened tension in the area, with residents calling for stronger security presence and urgent government intervention to prevent further attacks.