Paragraph 1: Dismissal of Herdsmen Attack Claims
The Benue State Police Command has categorically refuted allegations circulating on social media regarding a purported herdsmen attack on Wannue Town in Tarka Local Government Area on Friday night. DSP Udeme Edet, the command’s spokesperson, issued a statement on Saturday clarifying that no such attack occurred. The social media reports, which claimed the town was invaded by herdsmen, were described as entirely false and misleading. Edet urged the public to disregard the misinformation and rely on verified sources for accurate information. The police emphasized that no herdsmen presence was reported in Wannue.
Paragraph 2: The Actual Incident: A Targeted Shooting
Contrary to the online narratives of a widespread attack, the police revealed the true nature of the incident. On Friday evening, around 8 p.m., the police received a report concerning a shooting incident along Akume Road in Wannue. One individual, identified as Aondohemba Yayough, was fatally shot. Upon receiving the report, a team of detectives was immediately deployed to the scene to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and apprehend the perpetrator.
Paragraph 3: Identification and Pursuit of the Suspect
Witnesses at the scene identified the attacker as Saater Aii, a known ex-convict. This identification shifted the focus of the investigation from a potential communal clash to a targeted attack by an individual. Local security operatives were able to disarm the suspect; however, he managed to escape before being taken into custody. The recovered weapon, an AK-47 rifle, serves as crucial evidence in the ongoing investigation.
Paragraph 4: Medical Assistance for the Injured
Apart from the deceased, two other individuals were injured during the incident. They were promptly transported to a hospital and are currently receiving medical treatment for their injuries. The police statement did not provide further details regarding the extent of their injuries, but their condition remains a point of concern for the community. The focus now remains on apprehending the suspect and ensuring justice is served.
Paragraph 5: Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
The Benue State Police Command has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the shooting incident. Efforts to apprehend the fleeing suspect, Saater Aii, are actively underway. The police have appealed to the public for cooperation in providing any information that could lead to his arrest. They have also stressed the importance of verifying information before sharing it on social media platforms to avoid spreading misinformation and causing unnecessary panic.
Paragraph 6: Addressing the Spread of Misinformation
The incident highlights the dangers of spreading unverified information, particularly in the context of volatile situations. False claims of a herdsmen attack could have easily escalated tensions and sparked retaliatory violence. The Benue State Police Command’s prompt clarification and transparent disclosure of the actual events were crucial in mitigating the potential for further unrest. The incident serves as a reminder to exercise caution and responsibility when sharing information online, particularly in situations with the potential to incite violence or spread fear. The focus should be on accurate reporting and responsible dissemination of information. The police’s commitment to transparency and their consistent efforts to update the public are essential for maintaining peace and stability in the region.
