The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 14 people were suspected to be involved in the brutal lynching of Northern travellers along the Uromi/Obajana Expressway in Udune Efandion Community, Edo State.
The incident, which occurred on March 27, 2025, resulted in the deaths of 16 travellers and the destruction of their truck.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Joel Yamu, the victims were among 25 travellers aboard a truck with registration number KKF 225 XA, traveling from Elele, Rivers State. The truck was intercepted by vigilante members in Uromi, who discovered some passengers carrying locally made dane guns.
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Thereafter,tensions escalated when the vigilantes detained some of the travellers and raised an alarm, labeling them as suspected kidnappers. This led to a violent reaction from an enraged mob, which attacked and lynched 16 of the travellers before setting the truck on fire
Police operatives from the Uromi Division swiftly responded to the scene, rescuing 10 travellers, two of whom sustained serious injuries and were immediately taken to a hospital, where they are reportedly responding to treatment.
CSP Yamu stated, “Following swift investigations, 14 suspects have been apprehended in connection with the crime. An emergency meeting has also been convened with community leaders and stakeholders to address the situation and prevent further violence.”
To restore calm and prevent reprisals, a unit of the Police Mobile Force and other tactical teams have been deployed to the area. The Edo State Commissioner of Police has urged residents to maintain peace and cooperate with law enforcement agencies as investigations continue.
“We caution against any form of retaliation or unlawful gatherings that could escalate tensions further. The police remain committed to ensuring justice and upholding law and order in the state,” the statement added.
Authorities have assured that all those responsible will face the full wrath of the law as investigations progress.
