On Sunday, suspected herdsmen launched an attack on the Amegu Nkalaha Community in the Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, resulting in multiple fatalities and widespread destruction. Numerous houses were set ablaze, leaving residents in distress.

The Ebonyi State Police Command spokesperson, SP Joshua Ukandu, confirmed the incident, stating that law enforcement operatives have been deployed to the affected area. However, the exact number of casualties is still under investigation.

“Yes, an attack occurred, and police are actively responding to the situation. The command is working to ascertain the precise number of people killed,” Ukandu said.

The Chairperson of Ishielu Local Government Area, Ifeoma Agwu, also confirmed the attack, adding that authorities are in the process of recovering bodies and transporting them to the morgue. She emphasized that determining the exact number of fatalities remains challenging at this stage.

“We are currently taking victims’ bodies to the mortuary. I cannot provide more details at this moment, but further information will be made available soon,” Agwu stated.

While the motive behind the attack is still being investigated, some community members believe it may be linked to the recent killing of cattle belonging to herdsmen in the area.

A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, claimed that the cows were allegedly killed by members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) in a nearby forest. The source added that tensions have been rising in the community since the incident, with local stakeholders working to prevent possible retaliatory violence.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation, urging residents to remain calm while investigations are ongoing.