No fewer than 17 persons have reportedly been killed following an attack on Mbalom community in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State on Easter Sunday, according to residents.
The latest incident adds to recurring security challenges in parts of Benue, where rural communities have faced repeated attacks by suspected armed groups.
Residents said the attackers stormed the community, killing several people and setting houses ablaze. 
At least 17 bodies have been recovered, while many others remain missing as residents search the surrounding bushes for more victims.
Several homes and properties were also destroyed during the assault, leaving survivors displaced.
A local resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said: “This is heartbreaking. People were caught unawares. Many are still missing.”
Several calls to the spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, to confirm the tragic incident were not returned at the time of this report.
