Residents of Zaki Biam, located in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, are currently gripped by fear as criminal activities surge across the community.
Reports indicate increasing cases of kidnap threats, motorcycle theft, and the operations of suspected cult groups, creating a tense and unsafe environment.
According to a community source who spoke over the weekend, many residents have been getting threatening calls from anonymous individuals demanding money.
Failure to comply, callers warn, would result in abduction.
“People are terrified. These calls sound organized, and the threats are real. We need help immediately before the situation escalates,” the source said.
He explained that aside from the extortion schemes, a suspected cult group has been visibly active in the area.
The group reportedly gathers frequently at the shop of its alleged leader, near the former SSS office along Yam Market bypass toward the Mechanic Site.
“They meet both during the day and very late at night. Their activities are suspicious, and their presence increases fear in the neighborhood,” he added.
The wave of motorcycle theft, which has intensified in recent weeks, is also fueling anxiety.
Thieves reportedly target motorcycle owners at night, forcing many residents to stay indoors once darkness falls.
The kidnap threats have made the situation worse.
In one instance, a POS operator, name withheld, was compelled to pay ₦100,000 after receiving a threatening call from criminals who vowed to abduct him if he refused.
“Imagine being told you’ll be kidnapped if you don’t send money. That’s what we’re dealing with here daily,” he said.
Residents are urgently appealing to security agencies to intervene before the situation spirals out of control.
“We need the government and security operatives to step in. Lives and property are no longer safe,” another resident lamented.
Attempts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
