Benue: Zaki Biam Residents Forced to Pay Kidnappers ₦100,000 ‘Protection Fees’ Amid Rising Insecurity

Residents of Zaki Biam in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State are living under intense fear as criminal activities escalate, ranging from kidnapping threats to motorcycle theft and suspected cult operations.

A community source told our correspondent over the weekend that locals have been receiving calls from unidentified persons demanding money and threatening abduction if they fail to comply.

“People are scared because these callers sound serious and very coordinated. We need urgent help before things get out of hand,” he said.

He added that the growing insecurity has been worsened by the operations of a suspected cult group. According to him, the group holds frequent meetings at the shop of its alleged leader, located at the former SSS office along the Yam Market bypass leading to the Mechanic Site.

“These boys meet both during the day and very late at night. Their activities are suspicious, and everyone in the area is worried about what they are planning,” he explained.

Motorcycle theft has also surged, with thieves targeting riders after dark. The situation has generated widespread tension, especially as motorcycles remain the primary means of movement and livelihood for many.

“And because all the motorcycle thefts have happened at night, people no longer move around freely once it gets dark,” he added.

He further revealed that kidnapping threats have intensified the community’s fears. “One case involved a POS operator who allegedly paid ₦100,000 after being threatened by criminals who warned they would kidnap him if he refused.

“Imagine receiving a call telling you to send money or you will be taken away. That is the kind of fear people here are living with every day,” he stated.

Residents are now calling for immediate intervention from security agencies, warning that the situation is deteriorating and could escalate into more dangerous incidents if left unchecked.

“We are appealing to the government and security operatives to come to our rescue. Lives and property are no longer safe, and something must be done urgently,” he lamented.

Efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful as of press time.

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