The Benue State Police Command has arrested 10 suspects in connection with the murder of the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Benue State, Ardo Risku Mohammed, and another victim, Yakubu Isa.
The suspects were apprehended during a coordinated operation by the Command’s tactical teams on the night of June 27, 2026, in Otukpo Local Government Area. The arrests followed extensive intelligence gathering and targeted security operations aimed at tracking down those responsible for the killings.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Udeme Edet, described the arrests as a major breakthrough in the ongoing investigation.
The suspects 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 the officers involved, the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, praised the tactical teams and investigators for their swift and professional response.
“The Command has made significant progress in the ongoing investigation. Ten suspects have so far been arrested following intensive intelligence gathering and tactical operations,” the Commissioner said.
He assured residents that investigations were ongoing and that efforts had been intensified to identify and apprehend other individuals linked to the crime.
“The Command remains committed to ensuring that all those found culpable are brought to justice in accordance with the law,” he added.
CP Nwadiogbu also appealed to members of the public to remain calm and continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information that could aid the investigation.
Reaffirming the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, he stressed that the police would continue working to maintain peace and security across the state.
Ardo Risku Mohammed and Yakubu Isa were reportedly ambushed and killed by armed assailants 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 incident has heightened concerns over security in the area and renewed calls for justice.