A revenue collector identified simply as Emmanuel was on Thursday shot dead by suspected cultists in Benin, Edo State.
Emmanuel, popularly known as ‘Meme’ and a member of the Professional Drivers on Wheels, was reportedly targeted in what sources believe to be a retaliatory cult-related attack.
According to a source, the incident occurred along Akugbe Street, off 2nd West Junction by Oliha Market in Oredo Local Government Area.
The assailants, said to be in two operational vehicles, allegedly trailed Emmanuel from 2nd West Junction to a nearby residential building where he sought refuge. However, he was unable to gain entry due to a burglary-proof barrier and was subsequently shot.
Gunshots reportedly caused panic among residents and traders, many of whom fled the scene to avoid stray bullets.
Witnesses stated that the attackers shot Emmanuel multiple times and fled before security personnel arrived.
“Traders and residents were in shock and tears when police officers from Textile Mill Road Division reached the scene,” one resident said.
The victim’s body was later taken away in a commercial bus and deposited in a morgue.
A resident, Odion Osakue, who witnessed the shooting, described it as both shocking and tragic.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, CSP Moses Yamu, said further details would be provided in due course.
(NAN)