Plateau okada rider killed, body mutilated

A commercial motorcycle rider has been killed by yet-to-be-identified assailants, with his mutilated body found along Longvel Road in the Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State.

PUNCH Metro learnt on Monday that the victim, whose identity was yet to be ascertained as of press time, was reportedly attacked while on duty, with his motorcycle stolen by his killers. The circumstances surrounding the incident remained unclear.

A resident of the community, Henry Homsuk, who confirmed the incident to our correspondent, said residents woke up on Monday to the disturbing news.

“It is sad that someone would be killed and his motorcycle carted away. We woke up to the news this morning, and it was disturbing,” Homsuk said.

“It is painful that somebody would lose his life in such circumstances. We are worried about what happened and hope the authorities will take the matter seriously.

“The issue has been reported to security operatives. We appeal to the security agencies to investigate this matter thoroughly and ensure that those responsible are arrested.

“People should be able to go about their lawful activities without fear. Security should be strengthened along Longvel Road and in other vulnerable communities to protect lives and property and prevent a recurrence,” he added.

Reacting to the killing, another resident, Mrs Grace Longs, described the incident as heartbreaking and called for justice.

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“I knew that young man. I used to see him around. He was very hardworking and humble. He was just struggling to feed his family with his motorcycle.

“To kill him in such a wicked manner and cut his body is inhuman. The government should not allow his blood to be wasted like that,” she said.

Also, a youth leader in the area, Mr Dabang Joseph, said the incident had created fear among motorcycle riders and farmers who use the road.

“We are now living in fear. Longvel Road has become dangerous, especially in the evening. These criminals attack Okada riders almost every week.

“We are begging the security agencies and the local government chairman to mount checkpoints and patrols on that road. If nothing is done, nobody will be safe,” Joseph stated.

The spokesperson for the Plateau State Police Command, Alabo Alfred, is yet to respond to inquiries by our correspondent regarding the incident as of the time of filing this report.