Yelwata attack probe: Federal forensic team recovers 105 bodies from 13 mass graves in Benue

Federal forensic investigators have recovered 105 bodies from mass burial sites in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, as authorities deepen investigations into the June 13, 2025 attack on the community.

Security and emergency officials familiar with the operation said the federal team arrived in Yelwata on February 23, 2026. The exercise was led by Prof. Saad Ahmed from the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation in Abuja and supported by operatives of the Intelligence Response Team.

Sources said personnel from the Presidential Medical Delegation also participated in the mission alongside officials of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency, who assisted with local coordination.

Under heavy security provided by the Benue State Police Command, investigators identified the grave locations on the day of arrival. Excavation started on February 24, with seven bodies first exhumed.

The recovery operation continued through February 25 and February 26, when additional remains were removed from burial points around the community. By the end of the exercise, a total of 105 bodies had been recovered from 13 mass graves in and around Yelwata.

A security source said the exhumation is a core part of the ongoing inquest and is expected to strengthen evidentiary material for pending prosecutions tied to the killings.

“Seven corpses were initially exhumed by the IRT-led federal investigators for inquest. The exercise continued and further development will be communicated,” the source said.

The forensic deployment followed proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where nine suspects were arraigned on February 2, 2026 before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik over alleged roles in the Yelwata attack.

Court proceedings emphasised the need for scientific and forensic evidence to support due process and ensure that criminal responsibility is assigned on the strength of verifiable facts.

Officials said arrangements were put in place to maintain calm and prevent disruption during the exhumation process.

The June 2025 violence in Yelwata reportedly left multiple casualties and displaced residents, triggering broad public concern and renewed calls for accountability.

The Office of the Attorney-General had earlier commenced legal action against suspects linked to the incident. Authorities say further updates will be provided as investigations progress.