Police Arrest 10 Suspects Over Killing of Benue MACBAN Chairman, Associate

POLICE
Police Officer

The Benue State Police Command has arrested 10 suspects in connection with the killing of the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Benue State, Ardo Risku Mohammed, and his associate, Yakubu Isa.

The arrests were made on the night of June 27, 2026, during a coordinated operation carried out by the Command’s tactical teams in Otukpo Local Government Area following what police described as intensive intelligence gathering and tactical operations.

Confirming the development in a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, said the arrests represent significant progress in the investigation into the deadly attack.

According to the police, the suspects arrested 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.

The Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, commended the tactical teams and investigators for their swift response and professionalism in tracking down the suspects.

According to the Commissioner, “The Command has made significant progress in the ongoing investigation. Ten suspects have so far been arrested in connection with the incident following intensive intelligence and tactical operations.

“He assured residents that investigations are still ongoing, adding that security operatives have intensified efforts to identify and arrest other individuals who may have been involved in the attack.

The police chief stressed that “The Command remains committed to ensuring that all those found culpable are brought to justice in accordance with the law.

“He also appealed to members of the public to remain calm and continue supporting security agencies by providing credible information that could assist investigators in uncovering the full circumstances surrounding the killings.

CP Nwadiogbu reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to maintaining law and order across Benue State, assuring residents that the police remain determined to protect lives and property while sustaining peace and security.

Ardo Risku Mohammed and Yakubu Isa were reportedly ambushed and killed by armed men in Okudu community, Otukpo Local Government Area, on Friday while returning from a peace meeting convened by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Idekpa, Ohimini Local Government Area.

The incident has heightened concerns over security in parts of Benue State, where communal and criminal attacks have continued to pose serious challenges.