The Benue State Police Command has arrested 14 individuals following a protest in Makurdi that turned violent on Sunday, resulting in the death of a truck driver who was burnt alive when his vehicle was set ablaze by hoodlums.
According to a statement issued by the Command's spokesperson, SP Catherine Udeme Edet, what began as a peaceful demonstration against recent killings in the state quickly deteriorated when criminal elements hijacked the protest.
"While the right to peaceful protest is respected and protected, it is important that such actions remain lawful and non-violent," the police statement emphasized.
How Events Unfolded
The protest initially started at Wurukum Roundabout in Makurdi, where youths gathered to express their frustration over killings in the state. In an attempt to calm tensions, Benue State Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, and Deputy Governor Barr. John Ode visited the protest ground.
"Unfortunately, the crowd refused to listen and the protest was hijacked by violent people who even attempted to attack the Deputy Governor," police authorities reported. Security forces intervened using non-lethal methods including smoke and water to disperse protesters and safely evacuate the deputy governor.
The situation escalated dramatically in Apir, a community on the outskirts of Makurdi, where another group of protesters blocked a road, intercepted a moving truck, and set it on fire with the driver trapped inside. The unidentified driver was burnt to death in the incident.
Police Response and Investigation
"The command has so far arrested 14 suspects in connection with these incidents. They will be prosecuted accordingly. Investigations are ongoing to arrest other suspects and those who planned the attack," the police statement confirmed.
Authorities have urged the public to remain peaceful when expressing grievances and not allow criminal elements to exploit such gatherings for violent purposes.
The protest was reportedly triggered by recent killings in the state, particularly in Yelewata, which have caused significant unrest among local communities.
Stay updated on this developing story by following BenriNews on our social media channels:
