Yelewata massacre: 28 arrested, more to be tracked — IGP Egbetokun

Less than a week after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed security agencies to act swiftly, the Nigeria Police Force has arrested 28 individuals suspected to be behind the deadly attack in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.

The arrests were announced by the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, during a press briefing on Tuesday. He confirmed that efforts are ongoing to track down additional suspects linked to the massacre.

Egbetokun emphasized that the police remain in control of the situation and are actively recovering illegal firearms, including light and small weapons, from unauthorized individuals.

The IGP also revealed that the suspects will soon be charged to court. This includes 22 other individuals apprehended in Jos, Plateau State, in connection with the brutal killing of nine wedding-bound travelers in Quanpan LGA.

Recall that a few weeks ago, suspected armed herders stormed Yelewata, killing nearly 200 residents and razing several homes and properties. The atrocity sparked national and international outrage, drawing condolences from global figures including Pope Leo XIV.

The horrific event prompted President Tinubu’s recent visit to Benue, during which he ordered IGP Egbetokun to bring the perpetrators to justice without delay.