10 arrested over murder of Benue MACBAN chairman, Police intensify manhunt

By James Ike

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

The arrests came less than 24 hours after the victims were ambushed and killed while returning from a security meeting in the Idekpa community of Ohimini Local Government Area.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, the Command said the suspects were apprehended during a coordinated operation by tactical teams in Otukpo on the night of June 27, following intensive intelligence-driven operations.

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 statement quoted the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Cletus C.N. Nwadiogbu, as commending the officers involved in the operation for their professionalism and swift response.

According to the CP, "Following intensive intelligence and tactical operations carried out by the Command, 10 suspects have so far been arrested in connection with the incident."

He disclosed that the investigation had entered a crucial stage, adding that security operatives were pursuing other suspects believed to have participated in the attack.

"Investigations are ongoing and efforts have been intensified to identify and apprehend other persons connected with this criminal act. The Command remains committed to ensuring that all those found culpable are brought to justice in accordance with the law," Nwadiogbu said.

The police commissioner urged residents to remain peaceful and assist security agencies with information that could aid the investigation.

He said, "We appeal to residents of the state to remain calm, continue to cooperate with security agencies, and provide useful information that may assist in the investigation."

The Command reassured the public of its determination to protect lives and property, stressing that it would continue to work towards sustaining peace and security across Benue State.

The killing of Mohammed, who headed the Benue chapter of MACBAN, has heightened tensions in the state, with security agencies stepping up efforts to track down everyone involved in the attack.