From Joseph Uchenna, in Makurdi
A suspected dreaded gang leader, Ikyoga Joka Biam, was on Monday morning shot dead near the Abattoir close to the NKST Church in Zaki-Biam town, Ukum Local Government area of Benue State.
Zaki-Biam which is the agricultural hub of the State has witnessed incidents of criminal activities occasioned by rival criminal group clashes.
Witnesses said the murder of Biam occurred just before 9am throwing the busy market town into panic as residents fled for safety.
While details about those behind the attack remain unclear, residents linked the killing to longstanding rivalries and violent clashes associated with criminal activities in the area.
Residents in the community were divided, with some describing the deceased as a repentant gangster, while others alleged he had returned to his former lifestyle, making him a target by the rival group.
Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, DSP Udeme Edet, confirmed the killing to our correspondent on telephone.
She said it is not yet established whether Biam was killed by his own associates or by rival group.
She said, “The police are on the trail of those behind the killing”.
