10 hours ago
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Tension has gripped communities in Mnashisha, Tongov area of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, following wave of fresh violent attacks by suspected armed bandits over the weekend.
The armed bandits were allegedly led by a notorious gang leader known as Jugu.
Sources said the armed hoodlums stormed the community earlier in the week and seized several people from their homes.
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the heavily armed attackers arrived at about 4pm on Friday from the Kam axis.
“The gang led by a notorious leader known as Jugu came with his boys around 4pm on Friday. This time, among those they took away is a young man, Ayange Ikpa,” he said.
The source added that the abductors had yet to make any ransom demand, raising anxiety among affected families.
“So far, they have not requested any ransom, but family members are making frantic efforts to secure the release of those taken away,” he added.
Fear has enveloped the community over repeated attacks and most residents have fled to neighbouring communities.
“People are living in fear. Many are scared of staying in their houses after dark because no one knows when the attackers may return,” another resident lamented.
Residents have appealed to the government and security agencies to intervene and restore peace to the area.
The spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet could not be reached to confirm the incident as calls to her mobile telephone were not returned.
Tension grips Benue community as bandits run riot, kidnap residents
