The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 14 individuals who hijacked a peaceful protest organized by youths in Makurdi, the state capital, on Sunday. The protest, initially intended to be non-violent, took a dangerous turn when the suspects allegedly disrupted public order.
According to a statement by the Command’s spokesperson, Udeme Edet, the suspects blocked a major road in Apir, a suburb of Makurdi. In the course of the disturbance, they forcefully stopped a moving truck and set it on fire, with the driver—who is yet to be identified—reportedly trapped inside the burning vehicle.
The police say investigations are ongoing to uncover the full details of the incident and ensure justice is served. The command also reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order while protecting the rights of peaceful protesters.