Residents of Zaki Biam in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State are living in fear following a surge in criminal activities, including kidnapping threats, motorcycle theft, and suspected cult operations.
A community source told Vanguard at the weekend that unknown callers have been phoning residents, demanding money and threatening abduction if their demands are not met.
“People are scared because these callers sound serious and coordinated. We need urgent help before things get out of hand,” he said.
According to him, insecurity has worsened due to the activities of an alleged cult group reportedly meeting at the shop of its suspected leader, located at the former SSS office along the Yam Market bypass.
“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 added.
Motorcycle theft has also escalated in recent weeks. Thieves are said to target riders at night, heightening tension in a community where motorcycles serve as a primary means of transportation and livelihood.
“Because all the motorcycle thefts have happened at night, people no longer move around freely once it gets dark,” the source said.
The fear is compounded by fresh kidnapping threats. In one case, a POS operator reportedly paid ₦100,000 after receiving calls warning that he would be kidnapped if he refused to comply.
“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 said.
Community members are appealing to security agencies and the Benue State government for urgent intervention.
“We are begging 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.
