10 arrested over murder of Benue Miyetti Allah chairman

Police in Benue State have apprehended 10 persons over the killing of the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in the state, Alhaji Ardo Risku Mohammed, and his associate, Yakubu Isah.

The two men were reportedly attacked and killed on Friday along the Okwudu-Okpachenyi rural road in Otukpo Local Government Area while returning from a security meeting held in Ohimini Local Government Area.

Confirming the development, the Benue State Police Command said the suspects were arrested on Saturday night during a coordinated intelligence-driven operation carried out by tactical teams in Otukpo LGA.

The Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday in Makurdi, noting that the operation followed extensive intelligence gathering and tactical investigations launched after the killings.

According to the statement, those arrested are 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 in the state, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, praised the tactical teams and investigators for their prompt action and professionalism, which resulted in the arrests.

He said investigations are continuing, adding that security operatives are intensifying efforts to track down and arrest other individuals believed to have played roles in the incident.

The commissioner also reaffirmed the command’s resolve to ensure that everyone found culpable faces prosecution in accordance with the law.

He urged members of the public to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and provide useful information that could assist investigators.

The police command further reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property while maintaining peace and security across Benue State.

(DAILY TRUST)