Makurdi, Benue State — The leader of a dreaded militia group, popularly known as Joka Biam, was on Monday morning shot dead by suspected rival gang members in Zaki-Biam, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
The attack occurred near the abattoir close to NKST Central around 9:00 a.m., when armed assailants on a motorbike reportedly trailed the militia leader and shot him at close range before fleeing the scene.
Eyewitnesses told Hobnob News that the incident sparked immediate panic in the busy market town as traders, commuters, and residents fled in fear of further violence.
“It all happened in a flash, but the sound of gunshots sent shockwaves across the town, forcing commercial activities to a halt for several hours,” one source recounted.
Supremacy Battle Among Gangs
Local sources suggest that the killing may be tied to ongoing supremacy battles between rival gangs operating across Ukum, Logo, and Katsina-Ala LGAs, areas notorious for violent gang rivalries.
Conflicting reports indicate that while some residents claimed Biam had renounced criminality, others alleged he had returned to his old ways, making him a target for elimination.
Community members fear that his death could trigger retaliatory attacks, as rival gangs are known to carry out indiscriminate reprisal killings.
“People have already started fleeing the area because they know how these gangs operate. If they come for revenge, they don’t spare anyone,” another eyewitness warned.
Police React
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Udeme Edet, confirmed the incident, stating that investigations have commenced to determine whether Biam’s death was orchestrated by rival gangs or his own associates.
“The police are on the trail of those behind the killing,” Edet assured, adding that security has been reinforced in the area to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
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