Rival Gang Guns Down Notorious Militia Leader in Benue

A feared militia leader known as Joka Biam was shot dead on Monday morning by suspected rival gang members near the abattoir close to NKST Central, Zaki-Biam, in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.

The killing, which occurred around 9 a.m., is the latest in the escalating supremacy battles among armed gangs operating in the region.

According to an eyewitness, the attackers trailed Biam on a motorbike, shot him at close range, and sped off immediately.

“They tailed him and shot him after which they fled on their motorbike. The incident immediately threw the busy market town into confusion, as traders, commuters, and residents fled the scene for fear of further violence. It all happened in a flash, but the sound of gunshots sent shockwaves across the town, halting commercial activities in the area for several hours,” the witness said.

Locals linked the killing to ongoing rivalries, supremacy battles, and violent clashes among criminal gangs in Ukum, Logo, and Katsina-Ala LGAs.

“Some are saying he repented from criminality, while others allege he returned to his old lifestyle, making him a target of rival gangs. There’s fear his death could spark retaliatory attacks. People have already started fleeing because when these gangs come for revenge, they attack anyone they find,” the source added.

Confirming the incident, Benue State Police PRO, Udeme Edet, said investigations were underway.

“It is not yet established whether Biam was killed by his own associates or by members of a rival gang. The police are on the trail of those behind the killing,” she stated.

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