Police Arrest 10 Suspects Over Killing of Benue MACBAN Chairman, Launch Manhunt for Others

The Benue State Police Command has arrested 10 suspects in connection with the killing of the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in the state, Ardo Risku Mohammed, and another victim, Yakubu Isa.

The arrests were made on the night of June 27 2026, during coordinated intelligence-led operations carried out by the Command's tactical teams in Otukpo Local Government Area, following investigations into the deadly attack.

Confirming the development in a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, described the arrests as a major breakthrough in the ongoing investigation.

The suspects identified by the police are Titus Thyodenda 25, Utibe Sam 20, Owoicho Ameh 18, Sunday Useni 21, Sunday Ogbanje 46, Daniel Raphael 23, Adokole John 24, Samuel Ogazi 32, Agbo Daniel 25, and Onazi James 30.

Commending officers involved in the operation, the Commissioner of Police, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, praised the Command's tactical teams and investigators for their swift response and professionalism.

"The Command has made significant progress in the ongoing investigation. Ten suspects have so far been arrested in connection with the incident following intensive intelligence and tactical operations," the police commissioner said.

He assured residents that investigations were continuing, adding that security operatives had intensified efforts to identify and apprehend every other person connected with the crime.

"The Command remains committed to ensuring that all those found culpable are brought to justice in accordance with the law," Nwadiogbu stated.

The commissioner also appealed to members of the public to remain calm and continue providing credible information that could assist investigators in concluding the case.

He reaffirmed the Command's commitment to protecting lives and property while maintaining peace and security across Benue State.

The victims, Ardo Risku Mohammed and Yakubu Isa, were reportedly ambushed and killed by armed men on Friday at Okudu community in Otukpo Local Government Area while returning from a peace meeting convened by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Idekpa, Ohimini Local Government Area.

The Benue State Police Command had earlier condemned the killings and launched a full-scale investigation into the attack. Authorities have stressed that the 10 suspects remain under investigation, while efforts continue to track down other individuals believed to have played roles in the incident.