The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has confirmed the arrest of 53 suspects in connection with the recent wave of deadly attacks in Benue and Plateau States, describing the incidents as “barbaric” and vowing that the Nigeria Police Force will not relent until justice is served.
In a press briefing, the IGP recounted the horrific events that took place in the early hours of June 13, 2025, when heavily armed militias invaded Yelwata Community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. The attackers killed 47 people, injured 27, and displaced hundreds in a violent rampage that saw homes razed and livelihoods destroyed.
The IGP said the police responded swiftly, deploying tactical units, Special Forces, and detectives from the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) to restore order and pursue the perpetrators. So far, 28 individuals directly linked to the Benue massacre have been arrested and weapons, including two General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs) and eight AK-47 rifles, have been recovered.
“A major breakthrough was recorded between June 19 and 23,” Egbetokun disclosed. “Two prime suspects were arrested on June 19. Their confessions led to the arrest of seven more the following day. A key suspect who hosted the initial planning meeting was apprehended on June 21. On June 22, 18 additional suspects were arrested, and weapons used during the attack were recovered on June 23.”
All 28 suspects are in custody and have reportedly confessed to their roles in the attack. The IGP stated that legal proceedings are underway and the suspects will be arraigned in court without delay.
In a separate incident on June 22 in Mangu, Plateau State, a bus conveying passengers from Zaria was ambushed by a mob. Nine passengers were killed, three injured, and 22 others were rescued by security operatives. Twenty-two suspects linked to the attack have since been arrested and will also face prosecution.
Additionally, on June 23, two individuals traveling in a truck were murdered at Agan Area, North Bank, Makurdi. Five suspects connected to the killings have been taken into custody.
Condemning the surge in reprisal attacks and mob violence, the IGP issued a strong warning against jungle justice.
“Jungle justice, mob action, and taking the law into your hands have no place in a civilized society. Every Nigerian has the right to life and a fair trial,” he said. “We will not tolerate any group or individual who acts as judge, jury, and executioner.”
He emphasized that reprisal killings only serve to deepen divisions and prolong cycles of violence, urging citizens to reject vengeance and embrace peace.
The IGP also praised the synergy between security agencies—including the military, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)—which he credited for the swift arrests. He also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support.
“To the criminals: you may have struck, but we will strike back with the full force of the law,” Egbetokun vowed. “We are not retreating. We are advancing.”
He called on all Nigerians to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and cooperative, reassuring the public that the police remain committed to securing every community.
“There is no hiding place for perpetrators of violence—not in Benue, not in Plateau, not anywhere in this country,” the IGP declared.
As investigations continue, the Nigeria Police Force has pledged to maintain its momentum in bringing justice to the victims and restoring peace to affected communities.
Discover more from Inside Abuja Media
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
