Death toll has risen to six following the violent incident which occurred Tuesday in Jato Aka community, Kwande local government area of Benue state.

This is even as tension has remained high in Jato-Aka community following the violent incident.

The tragedy, which involved the shooting of students and mourners by security personnel, sparked outrage among residents and led to a retaliatory attack on Wednesday.

It was learnt that angry youth following the incident stormed the residence and office of Mue Ter Ichongo, Simon Baver, Wednesday, accusing him of complicity in the killings.

The mob set both buildings ablaze, destroying valuables and leaving behind significant damage.

No casualties were reported in the arson, but security operatives were later deployed to restore calm.

An elder from the community, who spoke anonymously, stated that three additional victims died due to injuries sustained. The three died in the hospital due to blood shortages. Among the deceased were two students and one mourner, bringing the total death toll to six.

The elder defended the monarch, stating that HRH Abeebe, a local chief, sent by Baver to investigate the shootings, was arrested while investigating the matter.

He insisted that the monarch had shown concern and was not indifferent to the tragedy.

Police spokesperson, Udeme Edet, confirmed the incident but offered a different account.

She said the military team was returning from patrol when they encountered armed hoodlums on  motorcycles.

A gun battle ensued, and stray bullets struck three students from Government Science Secondary School, Jato-Aka. 

One student died at the hospital, while two others are receiving treatment.