26 arrested over Benue massacre, as Police say more to be charged

Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has confirmed the arrest of 26 individuals in connection with the June 13 massacre in Yelewata, Benue State, where more than 100 people were killed, several injured, and properties worth millions of naira destroyed.

The killings sparked national outrage, prompting President Bola Tinubu to criticise the police for failing to promptly apprehend those responsible.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Monday, June 24, Egbetokun said that those arrested will be charged in court shortly. Among them are 22 suspects detained in Jos in connection with the brutal murder of nine people who were travelling to Quanpan for a wedding.

The police chief clarified that of the original 28 people taken into custody, two have since been cleared. He said they were used as bait to help identify and capture the primary suspects now in detention.

The IGP reassured the public that the police remain committed to restoring order and bringing all perpetrators of violence to justice.