The Benue State Police Command has taken three suspects into custody over the recent deadly attack on Anwule community in Ohimini Local Government Area, an assault that left several people dead, including a pastor.
The suspects, arrested after weeks of investigation, were identified as Isah Peter and Moses Peter from Agatu LGA, as well as a Fulani herdsman.
In a startling development, 22-year-old Isah Peter — one of the key suspects — was discovered to be the acting commander of the Eguma community vigilante group.
He allegedly carried out the attack using a firearm belonging to the community.
Upon his arrest, Isah claimed he acted under instructions from an individual known only as “Pepper,” who he said supplied the weapon.
He further admitted to participating in several violent operations along the notorious Otukpo–Oweto highway.
The Otukpo–Oweto route has, in the past year, become a hotspot for attacks on commuters, including kidnappings and killings reportedly carried out by armed groups and, in some cases, rogue vigilante members. The heightened danger has forced many residents to restrict travel to daylight hours or rely on police escorts.
Human rights activist Meddy Olotu condemned the involvement of those entrusted with community safety, saying: “It is shocking that those entrusted with community protection have become instruments of terror. Security agencies must conduct a full investigation to restore safety along the Otukpo–Oweto highway.”
Police authorities say investigations are ongoing, and more arrests are expected as efforts continue to dismantle the network responsible for the attacks in the area.
