The Edo State Police Command has condemned the tragic 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 ambushed, lynched, and their truck set ablaze by vigilante members and an enraged mob.
According to a statement from the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Moses Joel Yamu, the victims were among 25 travellers aboard a truck with registration number KKF 225 XA, which was transporting them from Elele, Rivers State.
The statement explained that vigilante members at Uromi intercepted the truck and discovered some passengers carrying locally made dane guns.
The vigilantes reportedly detained some of the armed travellers, but the situation escalated when an alarm was raised, labelling them as suspected kidnappers.
“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,” Yamu stated.
Police operatives attached to the Uromi Division were alerted to the unfolding violence and swiftly arrived at the scene, where they managed to rescue ten travellers.
Two of the rescued victims sustained injuries and were rushed to a hospital.
“Police operatives attached to the Uromi Division got wind of the incident and swiftly stormed the scene where ten (10) of the travelers were rescued, two (2) of whom sustained various degrees of injuries and were rushed to a hospital where they are currently positively responding to treatment,” the statement read.
As part of ongoing investigations, the police have arrested 14 suspects in connection with the lynching.
Additionally, an emergency meeting was held with community stakeholders to address the situation and prevent further violence.
“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,” Yamu stated.
To maintain peace and order, the Edo State Police Command has deployed a unit of the Police Mobile Force alongside other tactical teams to the affected area.
The Commissioner of Police also emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence and urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement agencies.
“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,” the statement added.
