Benue Police Arrest Girlfriend for Setting Boyfriend, Two Daughters Ablaze

The Benue State Police Command has arrested a woman, Mbalumen Ikyenge, in connection with a fire incident that claimed the lives of two young girls in Zaki-Biam, Ukum Local Government Area.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, the case was reported by the children’s father, Aondoyima Ierkwagh, who alleged that his girlfriend deliberately set his house on fire. Police said investigations are ongoing and that the exact motive behind the incident has not yet been established.

However, residents of the community claimed the tragedy may have been triggered by a relationship dispute. They alleged that the suspect visited her boyfriend’s residence on the night of July 5 but was asked to leave. She reportedly refused, believing another woman was inside the house with him.

Witnesses further alleged that the children’s father had put his two daughters, aged four and six, to sleep in a separate round hut before retiring to another building.

At about midnight, the suspect allegedly set one of the huts on fire, reportedly believing another woman was inside. The flames quickly spread and engulfed the hut where the two children were sleeping.

Neighbours rushed to the scene, rescued the girls, and took them to a hospital for treatment. Sadly, both children later died from severe burn injuries.

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of the suspect and stated that a full investigation is underway to establish the facts surrounding the incident.