The Edo State Police Command has arrested 14 suspects in connection with the brutal killing of 16 travellers and the burning of their truck along the Uromi/Obajana Expressway.
Confirming the arrest in a statement on Friday, the command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Yamu, condemned the attack and assured the public that justice would be served.
“The command is committed to ensuring justice for the victims. No stone will be left unturned in the ongoing investigation,” Yamu stated.
According to the police, the victims were among 25 travellers from Elele, Rivers State, when they were intercepted by a local vigilante group in Uromi.
“During the stop, some travellers were found with locally made dane guns, which raised suspicion among the vigilante members,” Yamu explained.
Tensions escalated as the vigilantes accused the travellers of being kidnappers, leading to an enraged mob lynching 16 of them and setting their truck ablaze.
Police operatives from the Uromi Division responded to distress calls, rescuing ten travellers. Two of the survivors sustained injuries and were rushed to the hospital for treatment.
“In the course of investigations, 14 suspects have been arrested in connection with the crime. An emergency meeting was also convened with stakeholders and community members,” Yamu added.
To prevent further unrest, the Edo Police Command has deployed the Police Mobile Force and other tactical units to the area.
Edo State Commissioner of Police, Betty Otimenyin, has urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement, warning against reprisal attacks or unlawful gatherings.
