Residents of Zaki Biam in Benue State are living in fear and allegedly paying N100,000 to kidnap gangs for protection.
Residents of Zaki Biam in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State are gripped by escalating insecurity, including kidnapping threats, motorcycle theft and suspected cult activities, according to a report from VANGUARD.
Sources in the community told the newspaper that unknown callers have recently been phoning residents to demand money, warning that failure to pay would result in abduction. “People are scared because these callers sound serious and very coordinated. We need urgent help before things get out of hand,” a resident said.
The situation has reportedly worsened due to the growing presence of a suspected cult group believed to hold meetings at the shop of their alleged chairman near the former SSS office along the Yam Market bypass. Their activities, residents say, are “suspicious” and heighten fear in the community.
Motorcycle theft has also surged, with thieves targeting riders at night, leading many residents to restrict movement once it gets dark. In one case, a POS operator allegedly paid N100,000 after receiving threats from criminals who warned he would be kidnapped if he refused.
“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,” another resident said.
Community members are now appealing for urgent intervention from security agencies, warning that lives and property remain at severe risk.