By Deborah Nnamdi
Four persons, including an elderly man and his two sons, have been killed in a suspected witchcraft-related attack in Imande-Dem community, Uvir Council Ward of Guma Local Government Area.
The attack, which reportedly occurred around 2 a.m. on Tuesday, has heightened tension in the area, with residents calling for justice for the victims.
A source in the community said the elderly man, whose identity was not disclosed, had been accused by some kinsmen of being responsible for the recent death of a young man in the village, whose burial was scheduled for Wednesday.
According to a resident who spoke anonymously, the allegation sparked the deadly assault.
“A young man died recently in the village, and some people accused the elderly man of being behind the death, claiming he was involved in witchcraft,” the source said.
The source further explained that a group of attackers reportedly stormed the man’s compound in the early hours of the day.
“A woman noticed their movement and raised the alarm. A young man who came out to confront them was immediately shot dead. As panic spread, the attackers pursued the elderly man who was fleeing with his two sons and killed all three of them,” the source added.
The killings have since escalated tension in the community, with family members of the deceased demanding justice and insisting that those behind the accusations provide proof of their claims.
Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Guma Local Government Area, Maurice Orwough, condemned the attack and ordered a full investigation.
In a statement issued by his aide, Ernest Tortiv, the chairman described the killings as gruesome and unacceptable. He also visited the community to assess the situation and commiserate with the bereaved families.
Orwough directed security agencies to ensure the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible, warning that such acts of violence would not be tolerated.
He noted that Uvir Ward had been one of the most peaceful areas in the local government and cautioned against any attempt to destabilize the community.
The chairman appealed for calm and urged residents to cooperate with ongoing investigations, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, particularly as the farming season approaches.
Community members have pledged their support to security agencies to ensure that those behind the killings are brought to justice.
