The Benue State Police Command has apprehended two individuals in connection with the violent protest that erupted in Gwer-East Local Government Area, leading to the destruction of the council secretariat, the traditional ruler’s palace, and several homes in Naka Town.

The protest, which broke out on Tuesday, followed the tragic killing of three members of the Benue State Civil Protection Guards by suspected armed invaders on Monday evening.

In a statement on Wednesday, Benue Police spokesperson CSP Catherine Anene confirmed the arrests, stating that reports from the Naka Police Division indicated that the demonstration started around 9 AM on March 11, 2025.

Reacting swiftly, the Commissioner of Police, CP Steve Yabanet, alongside security chiefs and the Governor’s Security Adviser, Col. Alexander Ashongu (rtd), visited the affected area to assess the situation.

“Upon arrival, we gathered that suspected herdsmen attacked and killed three young men, triggering a protest that escalated into violence. The demonstrators vandalized the local government secretariat, the Ter Nagi’s palace, and properties belonging to prominent figures in Gwer-West,” Anene stated.

She noted that increased police presence helped restore order, leading to the arrest of two protest ringleaders as investigations continue.

While expressing condolences to the bereaved families, CP Yabanet strongly condemned both the killings and the destruction of property. He assured the public that all those responsible for the violence would be brought to justice.