A grim chapter in Benue State’s security crisis deepened this week after federal forensic specialists uncovered 105 bodies from multiple mass graves in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area — nearly eight months after the deadly June 13, 2025 attack that shocked the nation.
The large-scale exhumation forms part of an expanding criminal investigation aimed at securing scientific evidence for the prosecution of suspects linked to the killings.
Federal Forensic Team Storms Yelwata
Security sources confirmed that the investigative team, led by Prof. Saad Ahmed from the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), arrived in the community on February 23, 2026.
The delegation included operatives of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) deployed from Abuja, alongside members of a Presidential Medical Delegation. Officials of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) were also involved in the coordinated operation.
Under heavy security cover provided by the Benue State Police Command, burial locations were identified on the same day of arrival.
Excavation commenced on February 24, with seven bodies initially recovered. Operations continued over the next two days, culminating in the exhumation of 105 bodies from 13 separate mass graves scattered within and around Yelwata. The recovery exercise concluded on February 26.
Evidence for Prosecution
Security insiders explained that the exhumation is critical to forensic analysis and strengthening the prosecution’s case against those allegedly responsible.
“Seven corpses were initially exhumed by the IRT-led federal investigators for inquest. The exercise continued and further development will be communicated,” a security source disclosed.
The forensic mission follows proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where nine suspects were arraigned on February 2, 2026, before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik over their alleged involvement in the Yelwata killings.
The court emphasised the importance of scientific and forensic evidence to ensure due process and accurate attribution of responsibility.
Renewed Focus on Accountability
The June 13, 2025 assault on Yelwata left scores dead and displaced numerous residents, igniting nationwide outrage and renewed calls for justice.
Authorities confirmed that tight security arrangements were maintained throughout the exhumation to prevent interference and preserve the integrity of evidence.
The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation had earlier initiated legal proceedings against suspects arrested in connection with the violence.
Officials say further updates will be provided as forensic analysis progresses, raising hopes that the mass grave discoveries could prove pivotal in delivering justice for victims and their families.
