Panic in Niger as Key Witness in Banditry Case, Justin Okun, Disappears After Assassination Attempt
Tension has gripped the community of Gulu, in Niger State following the sudden disappearance of Justin Okun Ehis, a key witness who had earlier provided crucial information to the police on a deadly bandit attack in the area.
His whereabouts remain unknown days after an attempt on his life by suspected bandits, sparking fears and speculations among residents.
Justin had played a significant role in assisting the Niger State Police Command with their investigation into the September 27, 2023 banditry incident that left six people dead and 14 others kidnapped. By revealing the identities of two suspected members of the group, his testimony led to the arrest of three individuals in connection with the attack.
However, his cooperation may have put his life in danger. On the morning of September 30, 2023, unknown armed men reportedly stormed his residence, shooting sporadically as they forced their way in and killed one of his family. According to a statement Justin made at the police station shortly after the attack, he managed to escape through the back door moments before part of the house was set ablaze.
Since then, efforts by the police to reach Justin for further investigation have been unsuccessful. The police formally declared him missing after several attempts to contact him proved futile, raising alarm over his safety and possible abduction by the same armed group he helped expose.
The development has sparked mixed reactions across the community. While some residents fear that Justin may have been kidnapped by the gunmen, others believe he might have fled into hiding to save his life, especially after the failed assassination attempt. Many are now calling on security agencies to intensify efforts to ensure his safety.
The Niger State Police Command has assured the public that it is doing everything possible to locate Justin, adding that the attack on his home is being treated as a targeted retaliation by the criminal syndicate. Meanwhile, residents remain on edge, with fears that more retaliatory attacks could follow.
