By Amos Aar
DESPITE the persistent attacks by suspected herdsmen in the Sankera axis of Benue State, a notorious bandit identified as Government Ucha has reportedly resumed a violent killing spree, further heightening insecurity in the region.
Local residents confirmed to National Record via telephone that Ucha, who is believed to be mentally unstable, was responsible for the deaths of at least ten individuals on Tuesday. The victims were from various communities within the troubled Sankera axis, an area long afflicted by violent unrest.
Among those killed in the latest attacks were: Ugugede (Alabar), said to be a relative of Government Ucha; Zico (Alabar); Mshar (Tse-Mende); an unidentified individual from Tse-Ahura, believed to be related to Tyotuna; Mr. and Mrs. Ngutor (Torov, Mbapesaku); and Pastor Atese Iorngaeem (Afia Abando, Mbawar Ucha)
Others include Thomas Tertindi Amuda (Mbatyu); a victim from Tse-Uke; Mbaveluior Kim (Tse-Kim); and Jonnel Ku’utsea (Tse-Mueikyuna, Mbazamber)
A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, indicated that local vigilantes were actively pursuing the suspect. “They are after him now. He will soon be killed because he has a mental problem,” the source said.
The latest killings compound the worsening security crisis in Sankera, where residents continue to endure frequent assaults from both criminal elements and suspected herdsmen, leaving communities in a state of fear and grief.
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.
