Benue MACBAN Chairman’s Murder: Police Detain 10 Suspects

The Benue State Police Command has arrested 10 suspects in connection with the killing of Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in the state, Ardo Risku Mohammed and one Yakubu Isa.

The command was quoted to have said that the suspects were arrested following intelligence-led operations during a coordinated operation by its tactical teams in Otukpo Local Government Area in the night of June 27.

The statement was issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, who described the development as a major breakthrough in the investigation and confirmed the arrests.

The suspects were identified as Titus Thyodenda 25, Utibe Sam 20, Owoicho Ameh 18, Sunday Useni 21, Sunday Ogbanje 46, Daniel Raphael 23, Adokole John 24, Samuel Ogazi 32, Agbo Daniel 25 and Onazi James 30.

The Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, commended the prompt response of the tactical teams and investigators.

“The Command has made good progress in its ongoing investigation. So far, ten suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident after intensive intelligence and tactical operations,” he said.

The police commissioner told residents that efforts were continuing to identify and apprehend the other persons linked to the killings.

“The Command continues to assure that all those found culpable will be brought to justice according to the law,” he added.

Nwadiogbu urged the residents to stay calm and keep supporting the security agencies with credible information that would aid the investigation.

He reiterated the command’s pledge to protect lives and property and ensure peace across the state.

Mohammed and Isa were allegedly ambushed and slain by gunmen at Okudu community in Otukpo Local Government Area on Friday while returning from a peace meeting called by the Divisional Police Officer in Idekpa, Ohimini Local Government Area.