Graphic photos: 20 feared dead and several others injured as gunmen storm Zaki Biam community and burn down homes

About 20 people were killed in Zaki Biam, Ukum local government area of Benue State on Monday while several others were seriously injured. A community leader, Chief Udam Wuhe, said more than 10 gunmen stormed the town from TorTonda- Zaki Biam road at about 5:00 p.m. on Monday evening and massacred members of the community.

He said there were no fewer than 20 dead bodies counted in the community, with several others injured and many houses razed by the gunmen.

 

The state Police Public Relation Officer, Moses Yamu, who confirmed the killing, however, said they don't know the exact amount of those killed and injured. He said:

“We are yet to ascertain the number of those killed in the attack. Our men are already on ground there to restore normalcy to the area,” he said.

According to Daily Post, a source reported that properties including vehicles, houses and a petrol station which belonged to a popular business mogul in the area were among properties that were burnt. The source said:

“The unknown gunmen driving in 4 toyota corolla cars popularly called ‘Duck Nyash’ and 12 Bajaj motorcycles stormed, Zaki Biam, killing people in the town. Casualties are yet to be ascertained but am still tracking events over there as I report this”.

Another source said:

“It started around 2pm this afternoon. About 12 bajaj and 4 duck yash came around the yam market area and started shooting. A fuel station was also burnt. It’s really a bloody evening in Zaki Biam”.  

“As I speak to you, everyone has deserted the community, running for his or her dear life. Over 50 persons have been killed, including school children returning home from their schools. We don’t know who the attackers really are”, one of the villagers told Daily Post.

The Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom confirmed the attack of Monday in Zaki Biam, in a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and ICT, Tahav Agerzua.

 The Governor condemned the attack and called for information on the whereabouts of the most wanted person in Benue State, Terwase Akwaza (a.k.a Gana).

The attack happened barely one week after suspected Fulani Herdsmen killed over 10 people in Buruku area of Benue state.