Woman arrested over arson that killed lover’s two daughters in Benue
Woman Arrested in Connection with Arson That Claimed Lives of Two Teenagers in Benue State
A woman known as Mbayegh has been arrested following an alleged arson attack that resulted in the deaths of two teenage daughters of her partner in the Kaffe area of Zaki-Biam, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
According to local resident Afaakaa Sankera, the suspect visited the home of Aondoyima Ierkwagh, believed to be her partner, on Sunday night. She was reportedly asked to leave but refused to do so after suspecting that another woman was inside the home, leading to an argument.
Reports indicate that Aondoyima locked his two daughters inside a traditional round hut before leaving the premises. It is alleged that the suspect then set the hut ablaze, under the impression that another woman was present.
Tragically, the two girls, who were asleep at the time, became engulfed in the flames. One girl died at the scene, while the other succumbed to her injuries in a hospital shortly afterward.
The victims have been identified as the daughters of Aondoyima Ierkwagh, a resident of Tsehe in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, currently staying at his maternal home in Zaki-Biam. Their mother was reportedly away in Taraba State for agricultural work at the time of the incident.
Following the fire, the suspect allegedly attempted to flee but was apprehended by members of the Volunteer Guards near Tse-Dugwer village. She was subsequently handed over to the police.
D.S.P. Udeme Edet, spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, confirmed the arrest and stated that the suspect is currently in police custody. He added that investigations are ongoing to clarify the details surrounding the incident.
The police have urged the public to remain calm and allow investigators to carry out their work, assuring that anyone found responsible would face legal consequences.