Residents of the Ahia/Onogholo area in Edo State have been thrown into a state of anxiety following a violent incident involving suspected cattle theft and an armed assault on herders along a rural path near the Ahia Market in Ubiaja.
Reliable sources revealed that the attack took place around 10:00 p.m on Saturday, July 6, when unidentified gunmen reportedly emerged from the nearby bush and opened fire on a group of herders guiding their cattle back to Okene in Kogi State.
A resident of the Oloshi community disclosed that one of the cows was shot during the ambush, causing the rest of the herd, along with the herders, to flee in various directions.
It was further alleged that the assailants returned later that night, slaughtered the injured animal, and made away with its meat under the cover of darkness.
The motive behind the assault remains unclear, and no group or individual has claimed responsibility as of the time of filing this report.
Efforts by concerned locals to uncover the identities of the attackers have so far been unproductive, with community members denying any knowledge of those involved.
Security sources confirmed that an investigation is currently underway to identify and apprehend the culprits.
Meanwhile, the affected herders are appealing for assistance in locating their scattered livestock and bringing those responsible to justice.
