Federal forensic specialists have uncovered 105 bodies from multiple mass graves in Yelwata community, located in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, as part of an ongoing investigation into the June 13, 2025 assault on the area.
Security sources disclosed that the team, led by Prof. Saad Ahmed from the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) in Abuja, arrived in Yelwata on February 23, 2026, to commence the sensitive operation.
The delegation was accompanied by operatives of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) from Abuja, alongside members of the Presidential Medical Delegation. The team also worked closely with officials of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to coordinate logistics and emergency response support.
Mass Graves Located Under Tight Security
According to insiders, the burial sites were identified on the same day the team arrived, under heavy security provided by the Benue State Police Command. Excavation began on February 24, with seven bodies initially exhumed.
Recovery operations continued on February 25 and 26, culminating in the exhumation of 105 bodies from 13 separate mass graves located within and around Yelwata.
The exercise was concluded on February 26 after authorities confirmed that all identified sites had been thoroughly examined.
Police insiders explained that the recovery process was crucial to advancing forensic investigations and strengthening evidentiary materials for the prosecution of individuals allegedly linked to the killings.
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“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 stated.
Court-Ordered Scientific Investigation
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 their alleged roles in the Yelwata attack.
During the proceedings, the court underscored the importance of scientific and forensic evidence to ensure due process and proper attribution of responsibility in the case.
Security authorities confirmed that comprehensive measures were put in place to maintain law and order throughout the exhumation process, preventing interference and ensuring the integrity of the operation.
Renewed Push for Accountability
The June 13, 2025 violence in Yelwata reportedly claimed numerous lives and displaced many residents, triggering widespread condemnation and renewed calls for justice.
The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation had earlier initiated legal proceedings against suspects arrested in connection with the incident, signaling the Federal Government’s commitment to pursuing accountability.
Officials assured that further updates would be provided as forensic analysis progresses and investigations continue.