Suspected armed bandits in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State have reportedly begun imposing taxes on residents of Torough and surrounding areas.
A local resident, who requested anonymity due to fear of retribution, revealed that the gangs have enforced a monthly tax of N20 million on each household. He mentioned that residents have started collecting the tax after being allocated their shares, as resistance is not an option.
“No one, including our village heads, dares to challenge the armed gangs or report them to the authorities,” he said. “We are practically prisoners here with no freedom of movement, association, or expression. These militia boys are very powerful in our Sankera axis, affecting the entire areas of Logo, Ukum, and Katsina-Ala.”
The resident described the gangs’ extensive communication network, which allows them to monitor everything. He explained that families are forced to pay N50,000 each, while traditional compounds with multiple households face a levy of N1 million.
Bandit Leader ‘Full Fire’ Identified
Caretaker Chairman of Ukum LGA, Mr. Victor Iorzaa, confirmed the situation, stating: “It is true that armed bandits are demanding N20 million from the people. I have reported the matter to the Police and the State Security Council. The person behind this is a bandit known as ‘Full Fire.’ He recently collaborated with armed herdsmen to attack Tiv communities and has been active in terrorizing the area for the past five years. The government of Governor Hyacinth Alia is working hard to end their activities, and security operatives are also involved.”
Security Adviser Responds
Special Adviser to the Governor on Internal Security, Joseph Har, responded to the situation by stating that bandits are on the run and cannot collect taxes from villagers. He said, “The issue of illegal levies is common among bandits worldwide as a means of survival. However, no government will allow such activities to continue. The criminals are currently under significant pressure, and many have fled their camps. We plan to maintain this momentum until they are either captured or surrender.”
Police Yet to Confirm Reports
When contacted, Police Public Relations Officer Catherine Anene stated that the Command had not yet received reports of the situation.
