Palpable fear has gripped members of Ukum and Katsina-Ala local government areas of Benue State as a result of alleged burning of motorcycles images of which are currently trending on social media.
The Benue State Security Council has earlier banned the use of motorcycles as a form of transportation. The measure was taken to curb rising insecurity in the areas.
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However, images which appeared on social media suggest that there was burning of motorcycles in Ukum and Katsina-Ala local government areas allegedly by soldiers.
The incident has generated mix reactions as some have called for an end to the operation since the directive by the Security Council did not authorise soldiers to set motorcycles ablaze.
Residents told our correspondent that the burning of motorcycles may increase the level of insecurity as people may lose means of livelihood.
READ ALSO: Angry youths set suspected motorcycle thief ablaze in Benue
Nonetheless, a military officer involved in the peacekeeping operation in Ukum and Katsina-Ala told our correspondent in confidence that “the images seen on social media are Photoshop and not from Sankera.
He said scenes of burning motorcycles can be posted on Facebook by anybody, especially mischief-makers. He urged members of the public to scrutinise whatever they see on Facebook.
