The Benue State Police Command has arrested 10 suspects in connection with the killing of the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in the state, Ardo Risku Mohammed, and one Yakubu Isa.
Naijaonpoint reports that the command said the suspects were arrested during a coordinated operation by its tactical teams in Otukpo Local Government Area on the night of June 27, following intelligence-led operations.
Confirming the arrests in a statement on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, described the development as a major breakthrough in the investigation.
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 tactical teams and investigators for their swift response.
“The Command has made significant progress in the ongoing investigation. Ten suspects have so far been arrested in connection with the incident following intensive intelligence and tactical operations,” he said.
The police commissioner assured residents that efforts were ongoing to identify and arrest other persons linked to the killings.
“The Command remains committed to ensuring that all those found culpable are brought to justice in accordance with the law,” he added.
Nwadiogbu urged residents to remain calm and continue to support security agencies with credible information that could aid the investigation.
He reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace across the state.
Mohammed and Isa were reportedly ambushed and killed by armed men at Okudu community in Otukpo Local Government Area on Friday while returning from a peace meeting convened by the Divisional Police Officer in Idekpa, Ohimini Local Government Area.
