An early morning raid by suspected cattle rustlers in Okpafie, Benue State, has resulted in the deaths of two men. The attack occurred around 1:00 AM on Thursday when approximately 12 gunmen, armed with AK-47 rifles, stormed a local ranch in the Okpokwu Local Government Area.
The owner of the ranch, identified as Benjamin, was killed in his home. Following the shooting, the attackers seized approximately 50 cows. Many residents were distracted at a nearby viewing centre watching football, which the perpetrators used to their advantage. Local vigilantes attempted to confront the group as they tried to flee, leading to a shootout that left one vigilante dead.
Okpokwu Local Government Council Chairman, Adah Inalegwu, confirmed that the attackers were not locals but external rustlers. He noted that the suspects escaped toward the bushland near the border of Ebonyi State. Security forces, including the police and military, are currently searching for the perpetrators. Authorities are also planning to establish a permanent security presence to prevent future incursions.
