The Edo State Police Command has arrested 14 individuals in connection with the brutal murder of 16 travellers and the destruction of their truck in Udune Efandion.
The tragic incident occurred on Thursday along the Uromi/Obajana Expressway. According to CSP Moses Yamu, the Police Public Relations Officer, the arrests were made following extensive investigations. Yamu condemned the killings and assured that the police would work tirelessly to ensure justice for the victims.
The attack began when a vigilante group intercepted a truck carrying 25 passengers from Elele, Rivers State, in Uromi. Upon stopping the vehicle, the vigilante members discovered some of the travelers were in possession of locally made dane guns, which raised suspicions. As the situation escalated, some vigilantes accused the travelers of being kidnappers, sparking an attack from local residents and passers-by. In the ensuing chaos, 16 of the travelers were killed, and the truck was set ablaze.
Police from the Uromi Division responded quickly to the scene, rescuing ten of the travelers, two of whom were injured and are currently receiving treatment at a local hospital.
Following the incident, 14 individuals were arrested for their involvement in the killings, and an emergency meeting was held with local community leaders and other stakeholders. In addition, a special team, including a unit of the Police Mobile Force, was deployed to the area to maintain peace and prevent further violence.
The Commissioner of Police for Edo State, Betty Otimenyin, has called for unity and peaceful coexistence among all groups. She urged residents to remain calm and avoid acts of retaliation or unlawful gatherings that could heighten tensions in the region.
