Tension gripped Bigwa village in Mbayenge, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, after gunmen suspected to be bandits launched a midnight attack on Tuesday, August 19, 2025.

The attackers stormed the community around 2 a.m., but were swiftly confronted by local youths who mobilized to defend their homes.

In the fierce clash that followed, the villagers managed to overpower and capture one of the bandits, while the others escaped with injuries. Sadly, several youths also sustained injuries during the confrontation.

The captured suspect has since been handed over to security agencies for further investigation.

Residents of Bigwa praised the bravery of their youths, but also issued a passionate appeal to the government and security forces to strengthen protection in the area and prevent future attacks.

The incident highlights both the resilience of local communities and the growing need for stronger security presence across bandit-prone regions of Benue.