Edo State Police Command has arrested 14 individuals in connection with the brutal lynching of Northern travellers along the Uromi/Obajana Expressway in Udune Efandion Community, Edo State.
The attack, which took place on March 27, 2025, claimed the lives of 16 travellers and saw their truck set ablaze.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, Moses Joel Yamu, the victims were among 25 passengers traveling in a truck with registration number KKF 225 XA from Elele, Rivers State.
The truck was intercepted by vigilante members in Uromi, who found some passengers carrying locally made dane guns.
The discovery led to panic, and the vigilantes raised an alarm, accusing the travellers of being kidnappers. A mob quickly gathered, launching a violent attack that resulted in the lynching of 16 victims. The attackers then torched the truck.
Police officers from the Uromi Division responded promptly, rescuing 10 of the travellers, two of whom suffered severe injuries. The injured victims were rushed to a hospital, where they are receiving treatment.
Yamu confirmed that 14 suspects have been arrested following swift investigations. Authorities have also held emergency meetings with community leaders to address the situation and prevent further violence.
To maintain order and avert reprisals, the Edo State Commissioner of Police has deployed a unit of the Police Mobile Force and other tactical teams to the area.
“We urge residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies. Any form of retaliation or unlawful gathering will not be tolerated. The police are committed to ensuring justice is served,” the statement read.
Investigations are ongoing, and authorities have assured that all those involved will face the full weight of the law.