Authorities in Benue State have made a major breakthrough in the ongoing fight against violence, with the arrest of suspects connected to the recent deadly attack on Yelwata community.
The attack, which occurred in Guma Local Government Area, left several people dead and thousands displaced.
At a press briefing held on Sunday, June 22, the Benue State Commissioner of Police, Emenari Ifeanyi, confirmed the arrests.
He, however, declined to reveal the names of those apprehended, citing ongoing investigations.
“The arrests were made possible through strong coordination, and we are grateful for the support of His Excellency, Governor Hyacinth Alia,” Emenari stated.
The incident in Yelwata sent shockwaves across the state.
Gunmen, believed to be herders, invaded the community in a brutal nighttime raid.
The aftermath saw the displacement of hundreds of residents, with homes, farms, and livelihoods left in ruins.
The Benue Yelwata attack has become a focal point for security agencies determined to prevent future violence.
Emenari acknowledged that assistance from the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has strengthened their efforts.
“Deployment of more personnel to rural areas has been completed, especially in vulnerable communities,” he added.
Moreover, the Commissioner urged residents to play an active role in safeguarding their environments.
He appealed to landlords, hotel operators, and business owners to properly vet new tenants and visitors.
“We all have a role to play in ensuring these criminals have no safe space among us,” he emphasized.
While the situation in Yelwata remains tense, the latest arrests mark a step forward in rebuilding trust and restoring peace.
The government’s collaboration with security forces shows a renewed commitment to tackling rural violence and preventing further bloodshed.
Governor Alia has been vocal in his support for justice and increased security.
The deployment of security agents and tactical teams across Benue’s rural belts is seen as a strategic response to repeated attacks over the years.
Furthermore, state officials have begun engaging affected communities to provide relief and prevent retaliatory violence.
Plans are also underway to resettle displaced persons and rebuild destroyed homes, according to government sources.
Arrested, only to be released months later