By Uche Nnorom, Makurdi
Two men, identified as Terwase Aye Abere and Mayange Aondowase, have been arrested and handed over to the police for allegedly assaulting a female trader in Igbor, Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State.
The suspects were apprehended on Monday by the Benue State Civil Protection Guards (BSCPG) following an alleged confrontation with the woman over payment of market levy.
According to an eyewitness account obtained by Peoples Daily, the incident occurred after the two men allegedly approached the trader and demanded payment of the levy.
The woman reportedly told them that she had not made any sales and was therefore unable to pay at the time.
The explanation allegedly led to a confrontation, during which the suspects were accused of physically assaulting the woman.
A photograph circulating online appeared to show the woman being dragged through the market, prompting concerns over the alleged treatment of the trader.
The incident was subsequently brought to the attention of the Special Adviser to the Benue State Governor on Security and Internal Affairs, Chief Dr Joseph Har, who directed the arrest of the suspects.
The two men were initially taken to the BSCPG facility in Makurdi for questioning before being handed over to the police for further investigation and possible prosecution.
During interrogation, Abere and Aondowase reportedly claimed to be officers of the BSCPG attached to the Gwer East Command.
They alleged that they were acting on the instruction of one Mr Ipker to bring the woman to their office by force over an unresolved matter.
According to the suspects, their attempt to carry out the instruction resulted in a confrontation in which the woman sustained injuries and was subsequently hospitalised.
Reacting to the incident, Har condemned the alleged assault and directed the State Commander of the BSCPG to produce the commanders mentioned by the suspects for questioning.
He also ordered that the two suspects be transferred to the Police Headquarters for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Har warned individuals who impersonate security operatives, particularly in rural communities, against harassing, intimidating or assaulting members of the public.
“The law will catch up with anyone hiding under the cover of security to harass or intimidate citizens. Security personnel must always adhere to the voluntary principles of human rights and security in the discharge of their duties,” he said.
The Special Adviser urged members of the public to provide timely and credible information to security agencies whenever they witness unlawful or inhumane acts.
The police are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, while further details were not immediately available as of press time.
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