15 suspects in custody over Uromi killings — Edo govt

In its resolve to bring the perpetrators of the Thursday killings in Uromi to justice, the Edo State Government said it has arrested an additional 10 suspects in connection with the crime, bringing the total number of suspects in custody to 14.

It would be recalled that no fewer than 16 travellers accused by some people in Uromi, the administrative headquarters of Esan North-East Local Government Area in Edo, of being kidnappers were gruesomely killed.

The victims, who were later discovered to be local hunters and were on their way to the northern part of the country to observe the Eid-el-Fitr celebration, were arrested by some unregistered vigilante members on Thursday.

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It was gathered that upon stop and search, the victims were alleged to have been in possession of dane guns and other light weapons, apparently for their hunting expedition.

The vigilante members, it was subsequently gathered, consequently raised the alarm that the people were kidnappers, leading to the roasting of over 16 northern-bound travellers to death through mob action.

The sad development attracted widespread condemnations from within and outside the state, hence, the Edo State Government swung into action with a bid to bring the perpetrators to book.

True to its assurance, the state government on Friday announced the arrest of four persons allegedly involved in the multiple connection killings

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, on Sunday, announced the arrest of an additional 10 suspects of the crime, and the suspension of the Commander of the State Security Corps, CP. Friday Ibadin (Rtd.)

In a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq. on behalf of the governor, also ordered the immediate suspension of all illegal Vigilante Groups operating under whatever guise in the State.

The statement reads: “It is to be reiterated that the local vigilante group involved in the gruesome killing of 27th March was operating illegally as it was never profiled or registered with Edo State Security Corps.

“Its actions do not reflect the core values, character and principles of the Okpebholo administration, or the objectives of the corps as enshrined in the Edo State Security Corps Governance Law.

“Investigations into the killings are on-going and fourteen (14) persons have been arrested so far, while there is an intense manhunt for others involved in the gruesome killing by a special team set up by the Inspector General of Police.

“The Government of Edo State reiterates its belief in the constitutionally guaranteed rights of citizens to move freely or engage in lawful business in any part of the country.

“In the meantime, the Government is in touch with families of the victims, community leaders and the Government of Kano State, where most of the deceased are reported to hail from.

“We urge all parties involved to remain calm as the State Government remains committed to ensuring that justice is done in a most efficient, transparent and proactive manner.”

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