The Edo State Police Command has arrested 14 suspects connected to the killing of 16 travellers and the burning of their truck in Udune Efandion along the Uromi/Obajana Expressway.

CSP Moses Yamu, the command’s Public Relations Officer, confirmed the arrests in a statement on Friday in Benin, condemning the killings and assuring 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, 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 when the vigilantes accused the travellers of being kidnappers, prompting enraged community members to attack and lynch 16 of them. Their truck was also set on fire.

Police operatives from the Uromi Division responded to distress calls, rescuing ten travellers, two of whom sustained injuries and were taken to the hospital.

“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 said.

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, urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement, warning against reprisal attacks or unlawful gatherings.