The Edo State Police Command has arrested 14 suspects in connection with the brutal killing of 16 travelers and the burning of their truck in Udune Efandion.
The tragic incident occurred on Thursday along the Uromi/Obajana Expressway.
In a statement issued on Friday in Benin, the command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Yamu, confirmed the arrests, strongly condemning the killings and assuring that justice would be served.
Yamu emphasized the command’s commitment to ensuring justice for the victims, stating that no stone would be left unturned in the ongoing investigation.
According to him, a truck carrying 25 travelers from Elele, Rivers State, was intercepted by a vigilante group in Uromi.
During the stop, some of the travelers were found in possession of locally made Dane guns, which raised suspicion among the vigilante members.
READ ALSO: JUST IN: Edo Tribunal Adjourns Over INEC’s Failure To Present Witnesses
“As the situation unfolded, certain vigilante members raised an alarm, alleging that the travelers were suspected kidnappers. This led to an attack by some community members and passers-by, resulting in the lynching of 16 occupants.
“The truck was also set ablaze,” Yamu said.
Upon receiving reports of the incident, police operatives from the Uromi Division swiftly arrived at the scene, rescuing 10 travelers. Two of them sustained injuries and were immediately taken to the hospital, where they are responding to treatment.
As part of the ongoing investigation, 14 suspects have been apprehended in connection with the crime. Additionally, an emergency meeting was convened with key stakeholders and community members,” Yamu added.
Meanwhile, a unit of Police Mobile Force personnel, along with other tactical teams, have been deployed to the area to prevent any further unrest.
Yamu further stated that Edo State Commissioner of Police, Betty Otimenyin, has called for peaceful coexistence among all groups. She urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with the police.
“She also warned against any acts of retaliation or unlawful gatherings that could escalate tensions,” the police spokesperson added.