Authorities detain 10 individuals in connection with the murder of Benue's MACBAN leader

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The Benue State Police Command has arrested 10 suspects in connection with the killing of the state chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Ardo Mohammed.

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This was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet.

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According to the statement, intensive intelligence gathering and tactical operations carried out by the command led to the arrest of the 10 suspects.

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“The suspects were arrested on the night of June 27, 2026, during a coordinated operation by tactical teams in the Otukpo area of the state,” he said.

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The command identified the suspects as Titus Thyodenda, 25; Utibe Sam, 20; Owoicho Ameh, 18; Sunday Useni, 21; Sunday Ogbanje, 46; Daniel Raphael, 23; Adokole John, 24; Samuel Ogazi, 32; Agbo Daniel, 25; and Onazi James, 30.

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PUNCH Online reports that Mohammed and his friend, Yakubu Isah, were killed on Friday, shortly after a peace meeting in Ohinmini Local Government Area of the state.n

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The attack reportedly occurred at Okudu village in neighbouring Otukpo Local Government Area and heightened fears of renewed violence in communities already troubled by recurring attacks and communal tensions.

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It was gathered that the MACBAN chairman had attended a peace meeting convened by the Divisional Police Officer of Ohinmini LGA alongside community leaders and Fulani herders.

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He and his companion were travelling back from the meeting when gunmen ambushed their vehicle and shot them dead.

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Meanwhile, the state Commissioner of Police, Cletus Nwadiogbu, commended the tactical teams and investigators for their swift response and professionalism in making the arrests.

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The commissioner assured members of the public that investigations were ongoing and that efforts had been intensified to identify and apprehend other persons connected with the killing.

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He reiterated that the command remained committed to ensuring that all those found culpable were brought to justice in accordance with the law.

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The commissioner further appealed to residents of the state to remain calm, continue cooperating with security agencies and provide useful information that could assist the investigation.

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The Benue State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property while sustaining peace and security across the state.

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