At least 13 people were killed on Friday after gunmen attacked a busy community market in Benue State, in north central Nigeria, according to local officials.
The assault targeted the Anwase Market in Mbaikyor, within Kwande Local Government Area, where attackers struck during peak trading hours. Several women were reportedly abducted, while market stalls were set on fire, forcing traders and residents to flee in panic.
A local government official said the assailants stormed the area when the market was crowded, causing chaos among civilians. He added that the chairman of the local council had travelled to the area alongside security agencies to restore calm and prevent further violence.
A witness said the attackers emerged from a nearby mountain, firing sporadically before setting parts of the market ablaze.
The latest attack comes just two days after another deadly assault on the Abande community, also in Kwande Local Government Area, where at least 17 people were killed. The back to back incidents have deepened fears over worsening insecurity in the region.
Residents have repeatedly called on state and federal authorities to strengthen security operations and provide better protection for rural communities facing repeated attacks.