By Funmilayo Akinyemi
Two major suspects have been arrested by operatives of the Department of State Service (DSS), in connection with the alleged lynching of 16 travellers last week in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State, South-South Nigeria.
A statement by Fred Itua, the Chief press secretary to the Governor Monday Okpebholo, disclosed that the suspects were arrested by operatives of the DSS in Uromi through intelligence operations.
He added that various security agencies were hunting for other suspects of the incident.
He stated, “Operatives of the Department of State Security have arrested two principal suspects involved in the killing of 16 Nigerians of northern extraction in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government last week.
The suspects were arrested by operatives of the DSS in Uromi, following credible intelligence. Operatives of various security agencies are hunting for other key suspects involved in the unfortunate incidents.”
Recent reports showed that the two suspects have been transferred to Abuja for further interrogation and prosecution by the relevant authorities.
Itua confirmed that the 14 suspects arrested earlier in connection with the Uromi killings have been transferred to Force headquarters in compliance with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
“I can confirm to you that the suspects have been taken to Abuja as directed by the IGP and investigation into the matter is still ongoing,” he said.
Itua who could not confirm if the compensation promised to the family of the victim would be financial, however said the Edo and Kano governments were working together to fashion out a suitable compensation for the family of the victims.
“As you are aware, Governor Okpehbolo met with the Kano State Government and visited the families of the I6 people that were killed, where he promised compensation.
“I cannot say what form the compensation will take but both state governments are talking to ensure that the victims’ families are compensated,” he added.
