Eric Patrick
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has condemned the killing of 16 travellers along the Uromi/Obajana Expressway in Udune Efandion Community, Edo State.
The attack, which occurred on March 27, 2025, saw a group of travellers ambushed, lynched, and their truck set ablaze by vigilante members and an irate mob.
The group of individuals, who were traveling in a truck and claimed to be hunters, were allegedly found in possession of nineteen locally fabricated firearms.
When intercepted by the vigilantes, who were not satisfied with the excuse of being hunters to be in possession of such a number of arms, they concluded they were kidnappers.
This led to a violent attack by members of the community and passersby, resulting in the lynching of 16 travellers and the destruction of the truck.
The Inspector General of Police, in a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Friday, called for immediate investigation.
First News gathered that the victims were among 25 travellers aboard a truck with registration number KKF 225 XA, which was transporting them from Elele, Rivers State.
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The statement read, “The IGP has directed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), DIG Sadiq Abubakar, mni, to take over the case and ensure a thorough, impartial, and expedited investigation.
“He assured the public that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to upholding the rule of law and will not tolerate any form of unlawful killings or extrajudicial actions under any guise.
“The IGP further appeals for calm and urges members of the public to cooperate fully with the investigation.
“He emphasized that anyone found culpable will be made to face the full weight of the law.
“Additionally, while condemning the resort to jungle justice, the Nigeria Police Force reiterates that the unlawful possession of firearms remains a criminal offense under Nigerian law.
“Individuals in possession of unlicensed firearms are advised to report to the nearest police station to surrender such weapons or initiate the appropriate licensing process.
“The Force warns the public to desist from taking the law into their hands and encourages the prompt reporting of suspicious activities to lawful authorities.”