A renewed wave of violent attacks is raising fresh fears among residents in Ukum and Katsina-Ala Local Government Areas of Benue State, particularly along the Zaki-Biam axis. Community sources and local alerts have detailed multiple incidents that occurred in recent days, leaving at least one person dead and several others injured.
According to reports shared by Hrh OrSankera Afaakaa, armed assailants, identified by residents as a combination of armed herders and local bandits, struck Tse-Abali (Abari) Shor in Mbakesa, Ugbaam Council Ward, Ukum LGA, around 2:33 a.m. Mr. Utsenda Aber was reportedly killed during the attack, while his wife sustained severe machete injuries and is currently receiving treatment in a hospital.
In a related incident, Tse-Erukaa in Mbagar, Uyam Council Ward, Ukum LGA, was also attacked, though no casualties were recorded there. Additional assaults were reported in Tongov along the Anyagba axis leading to Achough and Kaseve in Tiir Council Ward, Katsina-Ala LGA.
Other recent security breaches in the area include an attack on military personnel stationed at Alabar in Kundav Council Ward, Ukum LGA, and the assault on a popular farmer known as Yellow along Ayati Road near the Atuluku-Ityoakoso axis. Separately, Mr. Amokaha Koonoon was attacked with machetes by armed men in the Tse-Anyier to Tse-Ilam area of Mbamena, Uyam Council Ward, and is receiving medical treatment.
Residents have expressed growing concern over the deteriorating security situation on several major roads, especially during evenings and on market days. Affected routes include the Zaki-Biam–Sankera–Chito Road, Kyado–Tse-Burya Road, Kyado–Atsaam–Azabiam Road, Kyado–Atogbenda/Lafinkada Road, and Zaki-Biam–Bossua Road, among others.
Community members across Kundav, Uyam, Ugbaam, Borikyo, Kendev, Aterayange, and Mbayenge Council Wards have noted increased activity by armed groups. Residents of Zaki-Biam, Ukum, Katsina-Ala, and neighboring communities have been strongly advised to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel—particularly at night—and promptly report suspicious persons or activities to security agencies.
Heartfelt condolences have been extended to the families of those who lost loved ones, with prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured. The situation underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures to restore calm in the region.
