The Edo State Police Command has arrested 16 suspects linked to the gruesome killing of 16 travellers. Their truck was also set on fire at Udomi Efandion, along the Uromi/Obajana Expressway.
Police spokesperson, CSP Moses Yamu, confirmed the arrests in a statement on Saturday in Benin City. He condemned the killings and assured that justice would be served.
Yamu revealed that a truck carrying 25 travellers from Elele, Rivers State, was stopped by a vigilante group in Uromi. During a search, some travellers were found with locally made dane guns, raising suspicion.
Some vigilante members then raised an alarm, claiming the travellers were kidnappers. This led to an attack by community members and passers-by, resulting in the lynching of 16 people. Their truck was also burned.
Police operatives from Uromi Division responded quickly and rescued ten travellers. Two others sustained injuries and are receiving treatment.
So far, 14 suspects have been arrested in connection with the crime. An emergency meeting was held with community stakeholders.
A Police Mobile Force unit and other tactical teams have been deployed to restore order.
Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Betty Otimenyin, called for peaceful coexistence among ethnic groups. She urged residents to remain calm and avoid reprisal attacks.
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