By Daniel Aondoaseer Zendesha 

The Benue State Police Command says it has arrested seven additional suspects, including an 80-year-old man, in connection with the killing of the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Benue State chapter, Alhaji Ardo Risku Mohammed, and Yakubu Isa.

The Benue State Police Command has announced the arrest of seven more suspects in connection with the killing of the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Benue State chapter, Alhaji Ardo Risku Mohammed, and Yakubu Isa.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Udeme Edet, the latest arrests followed sustained intelligence gathering, painstaking investigation and continuous tactical operations carried out by operatives of the command.

The newly arrested suspects were identified as Chief Morgan Ejaga, 43; Chief Moses Anteyi, 45; Chief John Ogli, 58; Chief Yawuhu Adaji, 49; Sylvester Ajonye, 80; Aba Alexander Uloko, 59; and Fidelis Iduma, 45.

The victims, Mohammed and Isa, were killed on July 1, 2026, while returning from a security meeting convened by the Divisional Police Officer in Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State.

Police had previously confirmed the arrest of 10 suspects shortly after the incident. With the latest development, the number of suspects in police custody has risen to 17.

DSP Edet stated that the arrests were made through intelligence-led operations as part of the ongoing investigation into the killings.

She added that the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Cletus Nwadiogbu, commended the investigative and tactical teams for their professionalism and sustained efforts, noting that the operations had continued to yield positive results.

The command assured residents that investigations remain ongoing and emphasized that anyone found to have participated directly or indirectly in the killings would be identified, arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The Commissioner of Police also appealed to residents to remain calm and continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies to support ongoing investigations.

Police reiterated their commitment to ensuring justice for the victims while maintaining peace, security and public order across Benue State.