Suspected gunmen on Friday killed a vulcaniser on the popular Warrake Road in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Council Area of Edo State, in a violent manner.

Auchi is a busy town in Edo North Senatorial District and has become notorious for crime and criminality in recent times. It is home to many local politicians and political bigwigs in Edo State.

The ugly incident occurred on Friday, May 2nd, around 4 PM.

The victim, identified as Boyo, in his mid-twenties, was ruthlessly shot by unidentified assailants who fled the scene, leaving him lifeless in a pool of blood.

Boyo was known in the community as “hardworking and quiet,” and his murder has raised serious concerns about public safety in the area.

Many residents are grappling with the surge in criminal activities in Edo State and are of the view that the killings may not be unconnected with cult violence.

A worried community leader who spoke on condition of anonymity queried, “How can someone be murdered in such a cold-blooded manner and in broad daylight as well?”

Sources indicate that two armed men arrived on a motorcycle at Boyo’s roadside shop. One of the attackers dismounted and approached Boyo while he was resting, firing two shots at point-blank range.

Another nearby trader, a witness to the incident who wished to remain anonymous, recounted the sad incident, “It happened so fast. The shooter didn’t say a word; he just fired and fled with the motorbike rider. We were all terrified.”

As of now, police authorities have yet to provide any comment on the incident, nor have they identified any suspects.