710
By Lizzy Chirkpi
Tension gripped Zaki-Biam, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State on Monday when unidentified gunmen shot dead a repentant bandit, Kyoga Joka, at the town’s main market.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers stormed the crowded market and opened fire on Joka, who was serving with the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) in Ukum. He died instantly, sending traders and shoppers fleeing in panic.
Confirming the development, a community elder who declined to be named told Pointblanknews.com that Joka had been working closely with security operatives in the fight against banditry since renouncing his old ways.
According to him, “What you heard is true. I was told Joka was killed by unknown gunmen this morning. He was a repentant bandit who decided to repent last year and had been helping security operatives in the community to go after other bandits. I called the chairman of Ukum Local Government to find out exactly where it happened and he has promised to get back to me, so until he fills me in, I cannot give further details of the situation.”
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement as residents remain in fear following the brazen attack.