Tragedy struck in Chito and Tyo Akosu communities of Ukum Local Government Area in Benue State, where at least 22 people lost their lives due to a violent conflict involving rival gangs and an attack on a drinking spot.
The conflict began with a gang supremacy fight in Chito Community between the notorious criminal armed groups known as ‘Chain Gang’ and ‘Full Fire.’ This initial conflict resulted in approximately 15 fatalities, with several others sustaining gunshot wounds.
A separate attack occurred in Tyo Akosu settlement, where armed assailants stormed a drinking spot, opening fire on customers, resulting in seven deaths and several injuries.
The sources in the area indicated that while it was uncertain if the Tyo Akosu attack was directly connected to the Chito fight, there was suspicion that the gang supremacy struggle was spreading to other communities within the council.
The conflict appears to be an internal feud between rival criminal gangs rather than a communal crisis. The residents have expressed fear for their lives as they cannot distinguish between different groups among the local population.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, has not yet received official information about the incidents.
This report highlights the ongoing violence and insecurity in certain regions of Nigeria and the challenges faced in maintaining law and order.
