Forensic team exhumes 105 bodies in probe of 2025 Yelwata killings

Federal forensic specialists have unearthed 105 bodies from multiple mass graves in Yelwata, a community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, as investigations continue into the June 13, 2025 assault on the area.

Sources within the security circle disclosed that the team, headed by Prof. Saad Ahmed of the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) in Abuja, arrived in Yelwata on February 23, 2026. The delegation was accompanied by operatives from the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), Abuja.

According to the sources, the group also comprised members of the Presidential Medical Delegation and collaborated closely with officials of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) throughout the operation.

The burial sites were reportedly pinpointed the same day the team arrived, under tight security provided by the Benue State Police Command.

Exhumation began on February 24, with seven bodies initially recovered. The process continued over the next two days February 25 and 26 leading to the recovery of additional remains. In total, 105 bodies were exhumed from 13 mass graves scattered within and around Yelwata community.

The operation wrapped up on February 26.

Police insiders explained that the exhumation was aimed at enabling forensic examinations and reinforcing evidence for the ongoing trial of individuals accused in connection with the killings.

“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 said.

The deployment of forensic professionals came after proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where nine defendants were arraigned on February 2, 2026, before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik over their alleged involvement in the Yelwata attack.

The court stressed the need for comprehensive forensic proof to guarantee a fair hearing and proper assessment of responsibility.

Security authorities maintained that sufficient arrangements were made to ensure the exhumation process was carried out smoothly and without incident.

The June 13, 2025 attack on Yelwata reportedly claimed several lives and forced many residents to flee their homes, sparking nationwide outrage and demands for accountability.

The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation had earlier initiated prosecution against suspects apprehended in relation to the incident.

Officials noted that further information would be released as the investigation advances.