The Edo State Police Command has arrested 14 suspects in connection with the brutal killing of 16 travellers and the torching of their truck along the Uromi/Obajana Expressway.

The incident, which occurred on Thursday, has sparked outrage in the state.

CSP Moses Yamu, the command’s public relations officer, confirmed the arrests in a statement on Friday.

“We condemn these killings in the strongest terms, and we assure the public that justice will be served,” Yamu stated.

According to Yamu, a truck carrying 25 travellers from Elele, Rivers State, was stopped by a vigilante group in Uromi. 

Some travellers were found with locally made guns, raising suspicion. “While this was ongoing, some vigilante members raised an alarm, claiming the travellers were suspected kidnappers. This led some community members and passers-by to attack and lynch 16 occupants,” Yamu explained. 

“The truck conveying them was also set on fire.”

Police operatives from the Uromi Division rescued 10 travellers, two of whom were injured and are now receiving treatment.

“In the course of investigations, 14 suspects have been arrested in connection with the crime,” Yamu added.

Commissioner of Police Betty Otimenyin has urged peaceful coexistence and called on residents to remain calm. 

“She also cautioned against any form of reprisal attacks or unlawful gatherings that could escalate tensions,” Yamu stated. 

A unit of Police Mobile Force personnel and other tactical teams have been deployed to the area to prevent further unrest.