By Nkechi Eze
The Nigeria Police Force has made significant breakthroughs in its investigations into recent violent attacks in Benue and Plateau States, resulting in the arrest of no fewer than fifty-five suspects linked to mass killings, mob violence, and other acts of terror against innocent citizens.
Speaking at a high-profile press briefing in Abuja, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun expressed gratitude to the media and Nigerians for their continued support, stating that collaboration with the public and other security agencies remains vital in ensuring safety across the country.
Recounting a series of coordinated security responses, the IGP confirmed that the Yelwata community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State was brutally attacked by armed militias between 11:30 p.m. on June 13 and 2:00 a.m. on June 14, 2025. The assault left 47 people dead, 27 injured, and hundreds displaced, with homes razed and livelihoods destroyed in what he described as a “coordinated attack of terror.”
In swift response, the Police deployed tactical teams, special forces, and operatives from the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) to track and apprehend the perpetrators. The operation yielded prompt results. According to the IGP, twenty-eight suspects have been arrested so far in connection to the attack. Among them are key masterminds and direct participants who have reportedly confessed to their roles in the massacre. A cache of weapons, including two General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG) and eight AK-47 rifles used during the carnage, were also recovered.
“These suspects are currently in custody, and legal proceedings are underway. They will be arraigned in court without delay,” the IGP assured.
In a related development, the IGP disclosed another tragic incident that occurred on June 22 in Mangu, Plateau State, where a bus transporting passengers from Zaria was intercepted and attacked by a mob. The senseless violence led to the murder of nine people and injuries to three others before security agents intervened and rescued 22 passengers. So far, 22 suspects linked to the Plateau attack have been arrested and will face prosecution.
Similarly, on June 23, two individuals traveling in a truck were killed in the Agan area of North Bank, Makurdi, Benue State. Police have arrested five persons in connection with the incident.
The IGP used the occasion to issue a stern warning against mob action and jungle justice, calling them uncivilized, illegal, and deeply harmful to national peace and security.
“Every Nigerian has a right to life and a fair trial,” he emphasized. “We will not tolerate any individual or group attempting to become judge, jury, and executioner. Reprisal killings are not justice, they are an invitation to more bloodshed.”
He condemned the recent surge in violent attacks across the country and urged Nigerians to reject violence and embrace peace regardless of ethnic or religious affiliations.
“This is not who we are,” he stated. “Violence is not the answer. Let us choose dialogue and unity.”
The IGP also acknowledged the crucial role of inter-agency cooperation in achieving the recent operational successes, noting the joint efforts of the military, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other security bodies. He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the vital support that enabled the swift arrest of the perpetrators.
“As we move forward, we appeal for even greater collaboration as we work tirelessly to rebuild trust, restore order, and ensure lasting peace across our dear country,” he said.
Ending on a firm note, the IGP declared that the Nigerian state will not cower in the face of terror.
“Our people will not be silenced by fear. We are not helpless. Nigeria is not hopeless. These criminals may have struck, but we will strike back with the full force of the law,” he asserted. “We are not retreating. We are advancing. And we will not stop until every Nigerian can sleep with both eyes closed.”
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to tracking down every perpetrator of violence and ensuring that peace is restored across all troubled regions of the nation.
