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The Edo State Police Command has condemned the brutal killing of 16 travellers along the Uromi/Obajana Expressway in Udune Efandion Community, Edo State.
The violent incident, which took place on March 27, 2025, involved a group of travellers who were ambushed and lynched by vigilante members and an enraged mob, before their truck was set ablaze.
In a statement, Police Public Relations Officer CSP Moses Joel Yamu revealed that the victims were among 25 passengers traveling in a truck with registration number KKF 225 XA, which had departed from Elele, Rivers State.
The truck was reportedly stopped at Uromi by local vigilantes, who discovered some passengers carrying locally made dane guns. While some of the armed individuals were taken into custody, the situation quickly escalated when an alarm was raised, accusing the travellers of being suspected kidnappers.
The resulting chaos led to an attack by community members and passersby, leaving 16 dead and the truck destroyed.
“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,” the statement read.
Yamu further disclosed that police officers from the Uromi Division responded swiftly, rescuing ten travellers, two of whom suffered injuries and were taken to a hospital where they are receiving 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,” Yamu stated.
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