Police arrest 10 over murder of MACBAN chairman

The Benue state police command has arrested 10 suspects over the murder of Ardo Risku Mohammed, the state chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) and Yakubu Isa, another victim.

The arrests were made during a coordinated intelligence-led operation conducted by police tactical teams in Otukpo on the night of June 27, according to a statement issued on Sunday by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet.

Edet described the arrests as a major breakthrough in the investigation into the killings, adding that the operation followed sustained intelligence gathering and tactical surveillance.

The suspects 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.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Cletus C.N. Nwadiogbu, commended the officers involved in the operation for their swift response and professionalism.

He said the arrests represent significant progress in the investigation and reaffirmed the Command’s determination to ensure that everyone connected with the killings is brought to justice.

The police commissioner disclosed that investigations are continuing, with efforts being intensified to track down other suspects believed to have played roles in the attack.

He also appealed to residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies and provide useful information that could aid the ongoing investigation.

“The Benue State Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property while sustaining peace and security across the state,” the statement said.

Risku Mohammed, who served as the Benue State Chairman of MACBAN, and Yakubu Isa were recently killed in an attack that the police had earlier condemned, pledging to arrest and prosecute those responsible.