Gunmen attack Benue beer parlour, kill five

There was confusion on Tuesday in Tor Donga community, in the Katsina Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, after some gunmen opened fire on a group of revellers in a pub. While no fewer than five people were reportedly shot dead, scores were said to have sustained gunshot injuries and were rushed to a public hospital in the area. A witness, who did not want to be identified, said the gunmen rode on motorcycles, adding that they arrived at the area around 9pm. He said, “The incident happened around 9pm while people were drinking at the beer parlour. The gunmen entered the town on motorcycles and headed straight for the popular drinking joint. Suddenly, we heard sporadic gunshots. People scampered for safety, but by the time the dust settled, I saw many people on the floor. I saw at least five persons who were dead; the sight triggered cries from people around. Some youths helped the injured ones to a hospital in Katsina Ala.” The sole administrator of Katsina Ala, Vera Akwua, condemned the attack, which he described as unwarranted. The state Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Moses Yamu, while confirming the incident, said three persons were killed.