The Edo State Police Command has condemned the killing of some armed travellers in a truck at Udune Efandion Community, along Uromi/Obajana Expressway, Edo State, on 27th March, 2025.
The incident occurred when the truck with registration number KKF 225 XA coming from Portharcourt, conveying 25 travellers from Elele, a suburb of Rivers State, was accosted by some vigilante group members at Uromi, and some of the travelers who found in possession of locally made dane guns were arrested.
While this was ongoing, some vigilante members raised an alarm of them being suspected kidnappers, which led some members and passersby in the community to attack and lynch sixteen (16) of the occupants while the truck conveying them was equally burnt.
Police operatives attached to the Uromi Division got wind of the incident and swiftly stormed the scene where ten (10) of the travelers were rescued, two (2) of whom sustained various degrees of injuries and were rushed to a hospital where they are currently positively responding to treatment. In the course of investigations, fourteen (14) suspects have been arrested in connection with the crime, while an emergency meeting was convened with stakeholders and members of the community to address the situation.
In the meantime, a unit of Police Mobile Force personnel with other command tactical teams have been deployed to the area to forestall breakdown of law and order, while the Commissioner of Police reiterates the need for peaceful coexistence among various groups, and urges residents to remain calm and cooperate with the police as investigations continue.
She also cautioned against any form of reprisal attacks or unlawful gatherings that may further escalate tensions.
CSP MOSES JOEL YAMU,anipr
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER
EDO STATE COMMAND
