Tension is mounting in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State following reports that three young men were allegedly killed by soldiers stationed in the area during a confrontation in the community.

According to a statement by Comrade Joseph Apahar Joo, Media and Publicity Officer for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Benue State, the incident occurred on Sunday morning after a confrontation between local youths and security operatives.

Crisis reportedly began when community youths apprehended a suspected herder in possession of a motorcycle allegedly belonging to a soldier identified as Mr. Suleiman.

Upon interrogation, the herder allegedly confessed to using the motorcycle to carry out a recent attack that left several persons dead in Yelewata, also in Nyiev Council Ward.

The soldier in question, Suleiman, reportedly admitted to having given the motorcycle to the herder, claiming it was to help transport a colleague who had suffered a snake bite.

However, disagreement erupted when the youths pressed for the herder to be held accountable, leading to a violent response from the soldiers. Eyewitnesses said the troops opened fire indiscriminately, killing three young men on the spot. The identities of the victims are yet to be officially confirmed

Comrade Apahar has called on the Benue State Government and federal authorities to urgently intervene and deploy an independent security team to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of residents.

The Nigerian Army has yet to release an official statement, but sources within the military suggest the operation was linked to efforts aimed at curbing militia activity and armed violence in the region.